Kroger names Kaufmann as president of manufacturing

The Kroger Co. announced on April 4 that Calvin Kaufman has been promoted to group vice president of the Company and President of Kroger Manufacturing, effective immediately.

In his new position, Mr. Kaufman is responsible for overseeing the Company's 42 food processing plants in the U.S. that produce breads, dairy products, meat, beverages and thousands of grocery items for Kroger customers.

"Calvin has an extensive background in operations, distribution and engineering and we are fortunate he will be joining the Kroger Manufacturing team," said Don McGeorge, Kroger's president and chief operating officer. "His leadership and experience will be an asset to Kroger Manufacturing, an organization whose associates have been recognized for their leadership in manufacturing innovations and employee safety."

Mr. Kaufman currently serves as Senior Director of Logistics for The Kroger Co., leading the Engineering and Network Strategy Department, as well as having Operational Responsibility for the West Area including International Logistics, a position he has held since 2006. Mr. Kaufman joined the Fred Meyer logistics group in 1994 and has served Fred Meyer both as Group vice president of Logistics and as vice president of Distribution Engineering. Prior to joining the Company, he worked for United Parcel Service first as operations manager and then as engineering department manager.

Mr. Kaufman succeeds William T. Boehm, senior vice president and president of Kroger Manufacturing, who is retiring after 27 years of distinguished service to The Kroger Co. He joined Kroger in 1981 as director of economic research and has since held several positions of increasing responsibility, including vice president of Procurement and group vice president of Logistics.

"Bill's insightful leadership, dedication and integrity have benefited our Company in many ways," said Mr. McGeorge. "He has mentored countless associates during his tenure and his focus on the quality of our products and the safety of our associates has helped our company immeasurably."

Kroger, one of the nation's largest retail grocery chains, is honored to celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2008. The Company's more than 300,000 associates serve customers in 2,486 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 31 states under two dozen local banners including Kroger, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, Food 4 Less, Fry's, King Soopers, Smith's, Dillons, QFC and City Market. Kroger associates also serve customers in 782 convenience stores, 394 fine jewelry stores and 696 supermarket fuel centers the Company operates. The Company also operates 42 food processing plants in the U.S. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Kroger focuses its charitable efforts on supporting hunger relief, health and wellness initiatives, and local schools and grassroots organizations in the communities it serves. For more information about the Company, please visit our web site at www.kroger.com.