The Kroger Co. said Dec. 11 that it will set up a joint venture, dubbed "Retail Procurement Alliance," with Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. to improve supply chain efficiencies and lower costs.

Kroger and Walgreens have also been collaborating on a store format that allows customers to pick up Kroger grocery orders and buy Kroger food products at select Walgreens locations.

In August, the companies said they will add the Kroger Express grocery section to 35 Walgreens stores and offer Walgreens' private-label health and beauty products in 17 Kroger supermarkets.