Kroger's (KR) Q2 identical-store sales, excluding fuel, could fall below expectations and management could narrow full-year guidance toward the lower end of the range amid a more difficult grocery backdrop, ongoing pharmacy headwinds, and elevated diesel costs, Oppenheimer said Thursday.

The brokerage now forecasts flat Q2 Same-store sales growth, excluding fuel, versus Street expectations of 1.1%.

The grocery backdrop remains challenging, with weaker industry data points, including softer growth at other conventional players, partly led by SNAP and pharmacy headwinds. Oppenheimer also expects a modest adverse impact from the Cyclospora outbreak.

The brokerage said it awaits Kroger's investor day on Oct. 20 for a detailed update on turnaround efforts, timeline and longer-term financial targets.

The company is scheduled to report its fiscal Q2 results on Sept. 11.

Oppenheimer has a perform rating on Kroger.

Shares of the company were up 1% in Thursday afternoon trading.

Price: 58.82, Change: +0.60, Percent Change: +1.03