A ribbon cutting was held this morning, Jan. 30, at the 2211 E Center St., Owen’s location.

WARSAW — This morning, Jan. 30, Kroger hosted a ribbon cutting at their Center Street Owen’s location. The ribbon cutting celebrated the completion of a $4.1 million project to remodel and update the store.

According to Kroger officials, virtually every corner of the store has been upgraded. The store is offering new “Grab and Go” options from the improved deli and other new products store-wide. Customers are also able to shop with Kroger’s new Scan, Bag, Go system. This technology allows customers to use a wireless scanner or an app on their personal phone to scan and bag the products as they shop. This helps provide a quick, seamless checkout experience.

Although he wasn’t present, Warsaw Mayor Joseph Thallemer offered his comments. “It is certainly a privilege to represent the city of Warsaw to honor the exciting improvements for the grocery shopping experience Kroger has invested in … We all know that retail is changing as we stand here. The unrivaled advances in technology and communication fuel innovative solutions that Kroger has proudly displayed here today in Warsaw. Your investment and commitment to our community with these improvements makes our lives better.”

Pam Matthews, Kroger Central Division president, said, “The improvements we’ve made here represent our company’s ‘Restock Kroger’ initiative. We want to make sure our customers find brighter, more appealing stores, an even greater selection of products and upgraded technology that serves the needs of busy families. And all of that comes with the friendly customer service Kroger is known for.”

During the ribbon cutting, nearly $37,000 was donated to local programs to help with hunger relief. Mission Point Church, Our Father’s House, World Compassion Network, Fellowship Missions, Combined Community Services and the Food Bank of Northern Indiana all received donates.

Judy Kuczka was honored as the longer-serving associate at this Owen’s location. She has been an associate since 1982 and was described as, “a role model for the friendly and caring spirit.”