HUTCHINSON, Kansas -- David Dillon has been named chairman of Uncork Kansas for its 2015 campaign. Dillon, who is also the grandson of the founder of Dillon Food Stores, will begin this position following his retirement as chairman of supermarket and convenience store giant The Kroger Co. on December 31, after 38 years of service.
Uncork Kansas is a movement to eliminate anti-consumer liquor laws so Kansans have a choice in where they buy their adult beverages.
"Imagine being able to buy groceries and wine at the same time. Or, being able to buy a craft beer when you're at a convenience store--instead of making a special trip to the liquor store," it says on its website. "And what if you could buy ice, mixers, and snacks from your neighborhood liquor store rather than having to make a special trip to the grocery store that may be several miles away?"
The coalition is comprised of large and small retailers who have banded together to pass legislation that will give their customers the opportunity to enjoy the free market retail of beer, wine and spirits.
Dillon served as Kroger's chairman from 2004 to 2014 and as chief executive officer from 2003 to 2013. Prior to that, he held a variety of executive positions at Kroger and Dillons Cos., which merged in 1983.
With his knowledge of consumers and his experience in understanding the economic value to be gained through Uncork Kansas legislation, Dillon will be a tremendous advocate in efforts to modernize Kansas' adult beverage laws, the group said.
"With Dave's support during the upcoming session, Uncork Kansas will introduce legislation, which not only takes feedback from last year's campaign into consideration, but ultimately aims to expand consumer choice," said Joe Grieshaber, Dillon Stores president. "We are continuing to listen to our customers when they tell us they want the freedom to purchase a bottle of wine or craft beer with their groceries at Dillons. For us, it's about listening to our customers, just as we have done for the past 94 years and counting."
Dillon will serve as a supporter to raise awareness and elevate key messages through Uncork Kansas. Many of these messages are already being shared via the Uncork Kansas Facebook page and text messaging, which continue to raise discussions on the topic of modernizing adult beverages.
Dillon Stores, Hutchinson, Kansas, is a division of The Kroger Co., one of the nation's largest retail grocery chains. Dillon Stores operates 86 stores in Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska
Cincinnati-based Kroger, one of the world's largest retailers, has 2,638 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 34 states and the District of Columbia under two-dozen local banners including Kroger, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Fred Meyer, Fry's, Harris Teeter, Jay C, King Soopers, QFC, Ralphs and Smith's. The company also operates 785 convenience stores in 19 states under five banners: Kwik Shop, Loaf 'N Jug, Quik Stop, Tom Thumb and Turkey Hill Minit Markets.
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