Kroger recently celebrated the grand reopening of its Oxford, Mississippi, store following a multi-month renovation that ran about $2 million investment.
The Oxford store, which opened in 2001, is one of the top-performing locations in Kroger’s Delta Division and among the first in the company to feature the new decor package that will unify all Kroger family of stores.
Beyond the visual updates, the remodel enhanced the store’s bakery, meat, floral and frozen departments. The location’s Murray’s Cheese island also was expanded, making it the largest in the Delta Division.
Ole Miss connection
The store maintains a distinctive tie to the nearby University of Mississippi, with design details featuring iconic campus structures above the doors and in the sitting area.
Kroger also funds the Grove Food Pantry on the Ole Miss campus, which provides free food to students facing food insecurity. During the reopening celebration, the company presented an additional $5,000 donation to the pantry. Dr. Shawnboda Mead, vice chancellor for student affairs at Ole Miss, accepted the check and spoke at the event.
Associates honored
The celebration, led by George Brown, head of communications and public affairs for the Delta Division, recognized the work of store associates throughout the renovation. Store Leader Latoya Sullivan honored 12 associates, along with herself, for service ranging from 20 to 40 years with Kroger.
Delta Division leadership on hand included President Micheal Cristal, VP of Operations Niki Harvey, VP of Merchandising Jules Smith and HR Leader Jerusha San Roman.
The Delta Division operates 93 stores in five states and employs more than 13,000 associates.
The division also is undertaking a major expansion of its store in Oakland, Mississippi, which is expected to wrap up in November.