We have more than 450,000 associates across the Kroger Family of Companies. We know what they do. But who are they as people? What makes them tick? What makes them smile? And how does it help them seize some of the endless opportunities at Kroger?

This is Cart to Heart – a series highlighting leaders from across the company and country, hoping to answer those questions.

Jim Burns, Grocery merchandiser for Kroger’s Nashville Division, grew up in our stores. His father, the late William Burns, dedicated 45 years to the company and never left the town of Franklin, Tennessee. There was nowhere else Jim could imagine spending his career.

Jim recalls fond memories of going to the stores with his dad on Sundays to help him merchandise for Monday morning. While other boys were out playing baseball, Jim was at Kroger, playing grocery store. The apron was so long William had to tie it up to fit Jim, but there was nothing better than that time with his dad.

Jim, no longer in the stores, has quite the collection of Kroger memorabilia and can tell you why each of his pieces hold meaning to him.

Watch along as Jim shares his story and his infectious smile.

Learn more about careers at Kroger and how you can join our team at jobs.kroger.com.