ShopKo Stores, Inc. announced the reorganization of its ShopKo division’s merchandising, marketing and replenishment areas.

Kevin Easton has been promoted to corporate Executive Vice President and ShopKo division Chief Merchandising Officer effective immediately, and will be reporting directly to Sam Duncan, ShopKo Stores, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Easton, age 46, joined ShopKo in 2001 as Senior Vice President and General Merchandise Manager – Apparel.

“I am delighted to have Kevin lead our transformation to a genuinely merchandising-driven organization,” said Mr. Duncan. “He brings a wealth of experience and leadership to our business and will be a critical contributor as we refine our strategic direction.”

Easton has over twenty years of retail experience including twelve years at Target Corporation, where he last served as Vice President/Merchandise Manager. Prior to joining Target, Mr. Easton held merchandising positions with the F & R Lazurus and Sanger Harris/Foley’s divisions of Federated Department Stores. Easton holds a B.A. degree from Ohio State University.

Gary A. Hillermann, Senior Vice President, GMM – Hardlines, Steven T. Harig, Senior Vice President – Planning, Replenishment & Analysis, Distribution & Transportation, and L. Terry McDonald, Senior Vice President – Marketing and Communications, are leaving the company as a result of the reorganization and elimination of these three senior vice president positions. Their responsibilities are being reassigned to other executives, reporting principally to Mr. Easton.