B&R Stores Strengthens Executive Team with Promotions of Nick Kelso and Kevin Hennessy
Lincoln, Neb. – May 19, 2025
B&R Stores, Inc. is proud to announce the promotions of two valued leaders—Nick Kelso and Kevin Hennessy—effective June 1, 2025. These leadership moves reflect our continued commitment to our people, our customers, to operational excellence, and to exceptional performance and results.
Nick Kelso Named Executive Vice President – Store Operations
In his new role, Nick Kelso will lead the operations of all B&R Stores locations as Executive Vice President – Store Operations. A trusted and proven leader over his 25-year career with B&R, Nick has consistently driven results by focusing on people and store-level excellence.
“Simply said, Nick is in charge of our stores,” said Mark Griffin, CEO of B&R Stores. “His leadership is evident in every major initiative we’ve undertaken. Nick embodies our culture—careful, caring, and focused on people and customers. He knows that his success is deeply tied to the success of our store teams.”
Nick will now be positioned to shape and implement forward-thinking strategies that define the future of store operations at B&R Stores.
Kevin Hennessy Promoted to Senior Vice President – Merchandising and Marketing
Also on June 1, Kevin Hennessy will step into the role of Senior Vice President – Merchandising and Marketing, overseeing the full scope of the company’s go-to-market strategy. This includes category management, pricing, promotions, vendor partnerships, and advertising, along with leading a renewed focus on digital marketing.
“Kevin is in charge of what we sell and how we sell it,” said Griffin. “He has delivered strong performance since joining B&R in 2016, building structure and success across our Meat departments. His leadership style, creative thinking, and customer focus make him the ideal person to guide our merchandising and marketing strategy into the future.”
Kevin’s expanded responsibilities will help unify B&R’s sales, merchandising, and marketing efforts to better serve our stores and customers.
Positioning B&R Stores for the Future
These promotions help round out the executive leadership team, which also includes Steve Williams, Chief Financial Officer, and Patsi Trotter, Director of Human Resources.
“We are fortunate to have smart, capable, and experienced leaders across our company,” said Griffin. “Nick and Kevin exemplify the talent and dedication found throughout B&R Stores. With their leadership, we are well-positioned for continued growth and success.”
About B&R Stores, Inc.
B&R Stores, Inc. was founded in 1964 by Russ and Anita Raybould. The family-owned company has grown to include several supermarket banners including Russ’s Market, Super Saver, Apple Market, Allen’s, Cash Saver, C&R Markets, Mason’s and Joe’s Market located in Nebraska, Iowa, and Missouri.