PEKIN – Kroger celebrated the completion of a $2.2 million remodeling project to its store at 1607 Broadway Street.
“The remodeling reflects the changing needs and interests of our customers,” Kroger Central Division president Mike Goodwin said. “We added features and upgrades that make the store’s layout more appealing than before while preserving the affordable quality of food Kroger is known for.”
In addition to redecorating the store, Kroger’s remodeling package included a new dairy case, deli case lineup and popcorn shop. The store stayed open throughout the four-month project, said Eric Halvorson, Kroger’s central corporate affairs manager.
“The crews did as much as they could overnight to avoid any complications for shoppers,” he added. “We appreciate them being here and don’t want to make their visits any more challenging than we need to.”
A grand re-opening ceremony marked the occasion. The store offered free product samples to the first 100 patrons and presented $5,000 to Midwest Food Bank in support of Kroger’s national Zero Hunger/Zero Waste initiative.
“We’re truly grateful for this partnership,” Midwest Food Bank marketing director Melanie Tennell said. “When a community comes together like this, it creates something lasting, care that reaches people in a real and meaningful way. It’s a blessing to serve alongside partners who share that commitment.”
Kroger also honored the Pekin store’s longest-tenured employee, Tony Bennett, for 46 years of service. Bennett received a commemorative plaque and helped corporate officials cut the ceremonial ribbon to officially mark the grand re-opening.
Pekin mayor Mary Burress thanked Kroger for investing not only in the local store, but in the community. She hailed the remodeling project as a clear message that Pekin is strong and growing. “It’s not just your isles that have been updated,” she added. “It’s the confidence you have put back in your workers and your community.”
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Kroger completes $2.2M remodeling project at Pekin store
Reporting by Mike Kramer, Peoria Journal Star / Journal Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
