KROGER ANNOUNCES PROMOTIONS IN MANUFACTURING DIVISION

CINCINNATI, OH, March 8, 2000 -- The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today announced several promotions within its manufacturing division.

Theodore G. Redmond, 48, has been promoted to Vice President-Dairy, with responsibility for the Company’s six western dairy plants. He previously served as Director of Marketing and Sales for the manufacturing division’s grocery products group. Mr. Redmond has been with Kroger for 23 years and is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati.

Timothy Kelbel, who has served as Vice President of the Bakery/Deli Group for the past 10 years, has now expanded his responsibilities to include the bakery, deli and meat operations in the western U.S. Mr. Kelbel, 50, joined Kroger in 1973 as a manager at the Indianapolis Dairy. He is a graduate of Purdue University.

Michael F. Nosewicz, 46, has been named Vice President-Dairy, with responsibility for the Company’s 10 dairies in the eastern U.S. He previously served as Vice President of the Company’s beverage manufacturing group. Mr. Nosewicz replaces Robert J. Kosman, who has announced his retirement after 35 years with Kroger.

Andrew B. Lewis, Vice President-Grocery Products, has assumed additional responsibility for the beverage business. Mr. Lewis, 46, has been with Kroger for 22 years. He is a graduate of Alfred University.

"Bob Kosman has been a tremendous asset to The Kroger Co. and Kroger Manufacturing over the past 35 years, and we will miss his talents and skills," said Geoffrey Covert, senior vice president of Kroger and president of the Company’s Manufacturing Group. " said Joseph A. Pichler, Kroger chairman and chief executive officer.

Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Kroger is the nation’s largest retail grocery chain. The Company operates 2,288 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 31 states under more than a dozen banners, including Kroger, Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Smith’s, King Soopers, Dillon, Fry’s, Food 4 Less, Quality Food Centers, City Market and Jay C Stores. Kroger also operates 796 convenience stores, 389 fine jewelry stores and 42 food processing plants.

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