Kroger closes 60 unperforming stores after failing to merge the Albertsons
With plans to close 60 stores, Kroger will commit to new openings and employee relocation, navigating the challenges after an attempted merger with the Albertsons.
Scripps News
Cincinnati-based supermarket giant Kroger told employees he would eliminate employment from around 1,000 companies nationwide, including 200 in his hometown.
In a memo obtained by the Cincinnati Enquiler, Kroger interim CEO Ron Sargent said Cut would “simplify the organization” and that Kroger would free up money to lower grocery prices, add store clerk time and spend more on improving stores.
The latest cuts are the third wave of 2025 management and other non-store employment cuts, following Kroger’s back-to-back cuts in February and March.
“Though these decisions are by no means easy, we know they are thoughtful, but difficult, but we need to make choices to set up an organization for continuous success,” Sgt., wrote in a note dated August 26th.
As of February, the company employs more than 409,000 staff, most of which work in stores.
Here’s what you need to know about the recent changes in Kroger:
Kroger Store Closure
In June, Kroger said the company would close 60 locations over the next 18 months, over 60 months, according to a sales report for the first quarter of this year. Interim CEO Ron Sargent said during a conference call at the time that unprofitable stores were spreading across the country.
Kroger operated 2,731 stores at the beginning of the fiscal year. In other words, closures accounted for around 2% of all locations.
Additionally, the company has reaffirmed its plans to spend between $3.6 billion and $3.8 billion this year on capital expenditures, including funds to build new stores and expand and renovate existing stores.
Kroger added that he will offer roles in other stores to all associates currently employed at the closed location.
Contribution: Fernando Cervantes Jr.