With Dillon’s closing, Eco Devo is actively searching for a solution

ST. JOHN – On Friday, January 22nd, the City of St. John and its surrounding communities received news that Kroger would be closing the Dillon’s store in St. John.  This sudden announcement was a huge disappointment.  A grocery outlet is a vital element in a town for many reasons.  Therefore, Eco Devo is actively working alongside members of the International Organization of Odd Fellows, which owns the building, to maintain a grocery presence in St. John.

The first step is to gain access to the building and its fixtures (shelving, coolers, freezers, checkout lanes, etc.).  By doing so, this would reduce the barriers for another grocery business to be established.  Negotiations are underway with senior operations at Kroger regarding which fixtures can be left, and under what terms Dillon’s will be leaving the building.  Support from elected officials, Congressman Pompeo, Representative Lewis, and Senator Roberts’ Staff, was particularly helpful in getting these discussions started.

Kroger has agreed to provide a list of items it is willing to leave.  Following the results of the negotiations, we will focus on recruiting an independent grocer.

​We hope the community will stay tuned and support the new business as it develops.  Keep up-to-date on this news story by liking our Facebook page or visiting our website.