HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Dave Dillon, has been named Chairman of Uncork Kansas for its 2015 campaign. Dillon will begin this position following his retirement as chairman of the board for The Kroger Co. at the end of year.

Dillon served as Kroger chairman from 2004 – 2014 and as chief executive officer from 2003 – 2013. Prior to that, he held a variety of executive positions at Kroger and Dillon’s Companies, which merged in 1983.

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.

Uncork Kansas is a movement to eliminate anti-consumer liquor laws so Kansans have a choice in where they buy their adult beverages. 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 Stores, headquartered in Hutchinson, is a division of The Kroger Company, one of the nation’s largest retail grocery chains. Dillon Stores operates 86 stores in Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska.