Kroger is set to close 60 underperforming stores across the United States, impacting communities and workforces in multiple states. This decision comes after the attempted merger with Albertsons failed to materialize, prompting a strategic reassessment of Kroger's retail footprint.
Store Closures Across Several States
The closures, representing approximately 2% of Kroger's total of 2,731 stores, will affect locations in Georgia, Illinois, Virginia, and Washington. Specific locations slated for closure in August include:
- 11877 Douglas Road, Alpharetta, Georgia (closing Aug. 16)
- Mariano’s: 144 S Gary Ave., Bloomingdale, Illinois (closing by Aug. 15)
- Mariano’s: 2323 Capital Dr., Northbrook, Illinois (closing by Aug. 22)
- 1904 Emmett Street, Charlottesville, Virginia (closing Aug.)
- Fred Meyer, Pacific Ave. in Tacoma, Washington (closing Sept. 27)
- QFC in Mill Creek, Washington (closing this fall)
Impact on Employees and Future Investments
Kroger has stated that all associates currently employed at the closing locations will be offered roles at other stores. The company also reaffirmed its commitment to investing between $3.6 billion and $3.8 billion this year on capital expenditures, focusing on building new stores and expanding/renovating existing ones.
The United Food & Commercial Workers, a labor union representing retail, meatpacking, and food processing workers, initially identified many of the closures. A WARN Alert from the WA State Employment Security Department indicates 226 workers will be let go at the Pacific Ave. Fred Meyer in Tacoma.
While Kroger faces these closures, the company is also moving forward with plans to open new stores, aiming to balance its portfolio and adapt to changing market conditions. The closures include some locations Kroger was planning to divest had the merger with Safeway and Albertsons gone through.