Kroger Names Joe Grieshaber President of Columbus Division

CINCINNATI, March 17, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today announced Joe Grieshaber has been named president of Kroger's Columbus Division, replacing Bruce Macaulay, who is retiring after 42 years with Kroger.

"Joe is an accomplished leader with a diverse background and expertise in our fresh departments," said Mike Ellis, Kroger's president and chief operating officer. "His strong values and engagement with our associates will ensure continued growth and success in our Columbus division. We are looking forward to Joe's continued leadership."

Mr. Grieshaber, 57, began his career with Kroger in 1983 as a store management trainee in Nashville, Tenn. He has served in a variety of leadership roles with Kroger, including meat merchandiser, district manager, and as vice president of merchandising for the Columbus division. In 2003, he was named group vice president of perishables merchandising and procurement, where he was responsible for fresh and natural foods throughout Kroger's family of stores. He has served in his current role as president of Dillons since 2010.

Mr. Grieshaber has actively supported community organizations throughout his career. He serves on the boards of the Hutchinson Regional Health Care System, state and local Chambers of Commerce, and the local United Way. He and his wife Vickie have three grown daughters.

Mr. Grieshaber joined Mr. Ellis and the Kroger family in wishing Mr. Macaulay all the best in retirement. "Bruce's passion for our associates, customers and the community have contributed to Kroger's growth in countless ways. While his knowledge, compassion and guidance will be missed, Bruce's legacy will continue within our industry, company and the community."

Mr. Grieshaber's successor will be named at a later date.

Kroger, one of the world's largest retailers, employs nearly 400,000 associates who serve customers in 2,625 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 34 states and the District of Columbia under two dozen local banner names including Kroger, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Fred Meyer, Fry's, Harris Teeter, Jay C, King Soopers, QFC, Ralphs and Smith's.  The company also operates 782 convenience stores, 326 fine jewelry stores, 1,330 supermarket fuel centers and 37 food processing plants in the U.S.  Recognized by Forbes as the most generous company in America, Kroger supports hunger relief, breast cancer awareness, the military and their families, and more than 30,000 schools and community organizations. Kroger contributes food and funds equal to 200 million meals a year through more than 80 Feeding America food bank partners. A leader in supplier diversity, Kroger is a proud member of the Billion Dollar Roundtable and the U.S. Hispanic Chamber's Million Dollar Club.

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SOURCE The Kroger Co.