Kroger Central Division President Moeder Retiring
The Kroger Co. has announced the retirement of its Central Division president, Robert “Bob” Moeder, who began his retailing career with the Dillon Cos. more than four decades ago.
“During his 42-year career, Bob has consistently demonstrated his passion for and commitment to our associates, our customers and our local communities,” said Rodney McMullen, Kroger’s president and COO. “His improvement of our convenience store division and support on launching supermarket fuel has contributed to Kroger’s connection with customers and increased value for shareholders. I am sure Bob will remain involved in serving the Kroger family through his community service, passionately advocating for the causes that matter deeply to Bob and his family.”
Originally from Kansas, Moeder began his career with Dillon in 1971, working part-time for its Calhoun’s clothing division while attending college in Salina, Kan.
Moeder was named president of Calhoun's in 1984. In 1985, he joined Kwik Shop Inc., a Dillon convenience store division, as assistant director of operations. He became EVP of Kwik Shop in 1991, and was promoted to VP of convenience stores and Turkey Hill Dairy in 1995. In 1999, he was named corporate VP of convenience stores, supermarket petroleum group and Turkey Hill Dairy. In 2006, he was promoted to serve in his current role as president of Central Division.
During his tenure, Moeder oversaw a strategic restructuring of the division, including a significant number of new store openings, expansions, remodels and store closings, leading to almost $1 billion in store investments and nearly 2,000 new jobs. Under his leadership, Central Division acquired Scott’s Food & Pharmacy in Fort Wayne, Ind., where he led a $105 million capital investment project. His passion for people guided effective investments in community relationships and increased community support to nearly $15 million per year.
Following his retirement, Moeder and his wife, Marsha, plan to spend time in Indianapolis and Kansas, as well as traveling around the United States.
Cincinnati-based Kroger operates 2,422 supermarkets and multidepartment stores in 31 states under two dozen local banner names including Kroger, City Market, Dillons, Jay C, Food 4 Less, Fred Meyer, Fry’s, King Soopers, QFC, Ralphs and Smith’s.