C&K Taps Wissmann as Chief Officer

C&K Market has named Karl V. Wissmann its chief operating officer, effective immediately.

The Brookings, Ore.-based independent grocer, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in November of last year, aims to use this leadership change as a stepping stone for further growth. "Our employees have responded to the challenge to make our stores the best they can be, and our customers are shopping our stores," said Edward Hostmann, C&K’s restructuring officer. "Karl brings an outside perspective, and his small-chain experience will help us become a stronger company."

Wissmann, who most recently served as president and CEO of Star Markets on the Hawaiian Islands, and has also worked for Kroger and its subsidiaries, noted that he’s “confident that we can create real value that our customers will appreciate,” and that he “look[s] forward to leading the company in this effort."

"Entering Chapter 11 was a difficult decision for our family," said Doug Nidiffer, chairman of the board. "We're confident that we made the right decision, and are pleased that Karl is joining us. Current operations are meeting expectations, which gives us confidence that C&K will emerge as a stronger, leaner company that will serve local community needs for many years to come."

C&K Market operates more than 40 grocery stores under the banners of Ray's Food Place, Shop Smart and C&K Market.