KROGER NAMES MARK IBBOTSON EVP AND CHIEF STORE OPERATIONS OFFICER
Kroger continues to raise the bar on talent.
Kroger has announced that Mark Ibbotson, has been named EVP and Chief Store Operations Officer.
Mark has extensive grocery and retail experience with Asda and Walmart. Since 2020, Mark has been an advisor to McKinsey & Company.
I have a lot of respect for Mark.
This is an excellent move by Greg Foran.
One of the issues facing Kroger is that their stores have too much costs and complexity. In addition, morale among Kroger associates and managers who work in the stores is very low. What’s been missing is leadership, discipline and vision. Mark Ibbotson will change that.
I believe Foran will soon announce that he’s hired a new EVP Chief Merchandising Officer, and a new Chief Supply Chain Officer. It’s possible that Greg will also name a new CIO. These roles are critical to the company, and I anticipate that Foran has hired exceptionally talented executives for these positions. ❌
Foran will likely name Kathryn McLay, President of Kroger, once Kathryn’s non-compete with Walmart expires. It’s possible that Judith McKenna may be named President, and McLay becomes COO.
On another note, I want to reinforce that I support Kroger installing Electronic Shelf Labels from Hanshow, in 1,000 of their stores, and by Q1 of 2027, all Kroger stores will utilize Hanshow’s ESLs. Kroger has been unfairly criticized for using ESLs. This is a wise move by Kroger, that will improve the overall performance of the stores, and improve the customer experience.
Congratulations Mark!!
Greg Foran is doing what he was hired to do: lead and transform Kroger.
#retail