2018 was filled with developments that shook the industry, from Kroger's partnership with Ocado to UNFI's acquisition of Supervalu and the deployment of Amazon Go stores.

We at Grocery Dive worked hard to cover news as it broke, and then examine these changes and other pressing trends. We discussed small format stores, micro markets and automation. We also dove deep into e-commerce platforms and meal kits.

Below is a collection of some of our most-read stories, which together paint a picture of a year defined by change.

1. Kroger partners with Ocado in a bet on the future of online grocery

   The Cincinnati-based retailer's agreement with the world’s largest e-grocer will rapidly accelerate its automated fulfillment capabilities and position it to compete with Amazon and Walmart. Read More »

2. With Supervalu acquisition, UNFI gets a company in transition

   The combination will create a new wholesaling entity offering a wide variety of products, but both companies have significant challenges to overcome in order to make the deal work. Read More »

3. Supercenters to small formats: Why grocers are scaling down

   Retailers like Sprouts Farmers Market are playing down center store to resonate with customers looking for quick and convenient trips without compromising on experience. Read More »

4. Pardon the Disruption: Micro markets could be a huge opportunity for grocers

   As traditional store expansion becomes increasingly difficult, placing outlets inside office buildings, hospitals and even other retailers could boost companies' sales and their brand. Read More »

5. Will automation take online grocery to the next level?

   Using robots to fill and deliver orders promises to save retailers money and boost consumer demand, but with the technology still in its test phase, the broader impact remains unclear. Read More »

6. Albertsons and Rite Aid cancel merger amid shareholder opposition

   The $24 billion deal was criticized by investors and advisory firms as undervaluing the drug store chain, with the owner of Safeway and its namesake grocery unwilling to raise its offer. Read More »

7. Peeking inside the pod: A deep look inside Peapod's grocery delivery business

   As competition increases and more consumers purchase food online, the Chicago company increasingly depends on drivers like Ron Gordon to be the face of its business. Read More »

8. The collapse of Chef'd illustrates meal kits' challenges

   Slowing sales growth could put pressure on weaker companies that remain to improve their businesses, find a buyer or be forced to close. Read More »

9. Report: Amazon captures 30% of online grocery spending

   The company's market share is equal to that of all other supermarkets combined, according to Brick Meets Click, but it will struggle to grow if it doesn't do a better job selling perishable goods. Read More »

10. Report: Lidl is dramatically scaling back its growth this year

    The discounter will open 20 U.S. stores in 2018 — putting it well short of the 100 locations initially planned — as it encounters problems with its first wave of American stores. Read More »