KROGER TO CLOSE TENNESSEE DEPOT

CINCINNATI -- Kroger Co. here said last week it will close its Shiloh Distribution Center in Jackson, Tenn., and consolidate those operations with its Peyton's facility in Cleveland, Tenn.

cery products and other items manufactured by Kroger to company retail locations, Kroger said. These functions will continue at Shiloh until the consolidation is completed. They will then shift to Peyton's.

The company said the decision to close the leased Shiloh facility was the result of a year-long internal study of Kroger's long-term distribution needs. The consolidation is expected to improve efficiency and lower distribution costs.

About 60 positions at Shiloh will be affected, the company said. An incentive stay bonus based on years of service will be extended to employees who remain on the job during the transition period. Employees also will receive assistance in finding new jobs.

Kroger said interested Shiloh employees will be offered the opportunity to apply for open positions within the company, including positions at the Cleveland, Tenn., facility.