New York: If you’ve walked up to your local Kroger only to find shuttered doors or whispered rumors of closures, you’re not alone. In a move making waves across America’s grocery landscape, Kroger has confirmed it will close at least 60 stores over the next 18 months. The closures are being rolled out gradually, with initial hits in states like Texas, Georgia, West Virginia, and Tennessee.
The decision comes even as Kroger posted strong quarterly earnings—including $866 million in net income and a 1.5% boost in identical sales (excluding fuel). But Kroger executives say the closures are necessary to refocus on locations that deliver “sustainable results.” Translation? Some stores just aren’t profitable enough to keep open.
Still, for thousands of shoppers who rely on Kroger as their nearest, most affordable grocery option—and for hundreds of employees—this isn’t just about profit margins. It’s about access, affordability, and community stability.
Also Read: Market Basket Meltdown: Arthur T. Demoulas Placed on Leave, Accuses Board of Takeover
Why Is Kroger Closing Stores Now?
Kroger’s store closures are part of a broader realignment strategy following its failed merger attempt with Albertsons and increasing competition from digital-first grocers like Amazon Fresh, Instacart, and Target’s growing grocery arm.
Interim CEO Gary Millerchip explained that the decision to close 60 underperforming stores—roughly 5% of the company’s footprint—will allow Kroger to reallocate resources into modernizing better-performing stores, expanding delivery options, and opening about 30 new stores in growth areas.
Kroger has also taken a $100 million impairment charge to cover closure costs, with the promise that these closures will lead to long-term benefits like improved shopping experiences and digital upgrades.
Where Are the Closures Happening?
While Kroger hasn’t released a full national list, several regional announcements have confirmed which communities are being affected:
- Metro Atlanta, GA: 4 stores closing by fall 2025
- Dickinson, TX: Longstanding Kroger location shut down
- Benwood, WV: One of the city’s only full-service groceries to close
- Memphis, TN: At least two stores tagged for 2026 shutdown
Expect the full closure wave to continue through late 2026, with updates trickling out from regional news outlets and Kroger’s own public channels.
What Happens to Workers and Communities?
According to Kroger, all affected employees will be offered jobs at nearby stores. While this reassures some, many workers face longer commutes or fear cuts in hours or benefits. Labor groups in several cities have already raised concerns about fairness in reassignments.
Meanwhile, communities risk becoming food deserts—particularly in areas where Kroger was the only affordable grocery option. In smaller towns like Benwood, WV, local officials say the departure leaves a “serious gap” that may not be filled easily.
The Bigger Picture: Is Kroger Retreating or Reinventing?
Let’s be clear: Kroger is not downsizing in the traditional sense. While it’s shutting underperforming stores, the chain is simultaneously investing heavily in expansion markets—especially in the Sun Belt—and betting big on digital.
Future investments include:
- Same-day delivery and curbside pickup across more ZIP codes
- Enhanced private-label offerings (like Simple Truth and Kroger Brand)
- Pharmacy upgrades and health clinic expansions
- In-store tech like smart carts and automated checkout
The goal? A leaner, smarter, more digitally integrated Kroger—one better equipped to compete with Amazon, Walmart, and Trader Joe’s in the evolving grocery war.
What Can You Do as a Shopper?
- Check your store’s status: Use the Kroger app or call customer service for updates.
- Advocate locally: Community petitions and city council appeals have delayed closures before.
- Explore local grocers: Farmer’s markets, food co-ops, and regional chains may step in.
- Try digital: Kroger is pushing discounts, delivery offers, and loyalty perks through its app—take advantage while it lasts.
The Kroger closures are more than a corporate adjustment—they’re a reality check on how America shops, eats, and survives in an inflation-wracked economy. Whether you’re a loyal Kroger customer or just watching the shift from afar, this is a moment to rethink grocery access, local economies, and how digital transformation is rewriting everyday routines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Kroger closing 60 stores?
Kroger is closing 60 underperforming stores to streamline operations, reinvest in more profitable locations, and expand digital services.
Which Kroger stores are closing in 2025 and 2026?
Kroger has confirmed closures in states like Texas, Georgia, West Virginia, and Tennessee. The full list has not been made public but will roll out over 18 months.
Will Kroger employees lose their jobs?
Kroger says all affected employees will be offered roles at nearby stores, although some may face longer commutes or adjusted hours.
Is Kroger going out of business?
No, Kroger is not going out of business. In fact, the company is opening 30 new stores in high-growth areas while closing 60 underperforming ones.
How can I check if my local Kroger is closing?
You can check Kroger’s website, sign up for store alerts through the app, or follow local news for region-specific closure updates.
