You’ve probably seen the headlines that Kroger, the parent company of Harris Teeter, Mariano’s, Jay C and Pick ’n Save, will close 60 underperforming stores across the U.S. over the next 18 months. USA TODAY first reported this plan and it has now been confirmed by the UFCW union.
These closures affect communities from Georgia to Wisconsin and equal about 2 percent of Kroger’s 2,731 stores. Kroger says it will use the savings to open new stores, remodel existing ones and improve customer service. Whether you shop at Kroger or work there, this guide will explain what’s happening, why Kroger made this decision and how it might affect you.
According to Kroger’s first quarter 2025 sales report (Form 10-K), the company expects a ‘modest financial benefit’ will result from closing ‘approximately 60 stores.’ Kroger also said it intends to reinvest the savings from the closures into the ‘customer experience.’Interim CEO Ron Sargent said during a conference call on Friday, June 20, that the unprofitable stores being closed were spread around the U.S. Erin Rolfes, a spokesperson for Kroger, told USA TODAY in an email that the company ‘will not be releasing the store list at this time.’ Kroger will offer roles in other stores to all associates currently employed at closing locations.”
As reported by USA TODAY Money on Twitter:
Why Kroger Is Making the Cuts
- Operational Efficiency: By closing low-volume stores, Kroger can focus staff and inventory on higher-traffic locations.
- Financial Reinvestment: The plan includes a one-time $100 million impairment charge, with savings earmarked for remodeling existing stores and opening at least 30 new locations in growth markets
- Employee Support: Kroger has pledged to offer transfers or roles at nearby stores to all associates impacted by closures.
Which Kroger Stores Are Closing?
| State | Location | Estimated Closure Date |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 2452 Morosgo Way, Atlanta | July 19, 2025 |
| 11877 Douglas Road, Alpharetta | August 16, 2025 | |
| 3479 Memorial Drive, Decatur | September 13, 2025 | |
| 3855 Buford Highway, Brookhaven | October 18, 2025 | |
| Illinois | 3311 N. Sterling Ave., Peoria | ~August 2, 2025 |
| Mariano’s (450 W Half Day Rd., Buffalo Grove) | by August 8, 2025 | |
| Mariano’s (144 S Gary Ave., Bloomingdale) | by August 15, 2025 | |
| Mariano’s (2323 Capital Dr., Northbrook) | by August 22, 2025 | |
| Indiana | 4526 W Western Ave., South Bend | Early August 2025 |
| 901 Johnson St., Elkhart | Early August 2025 | |
| Jay C (201 High St., Shoals) | Date TBD | |
| Kentucky | 4211 S Third St., Louisville | Date TBD |
| Louisiana | 4100 Barksdale Blvd., Bossier City | Date TBD |
| Maryland | Harris Teeter (11845 Old Georgetown Rd., Rockville) | by July 20, 2025 |
| North Carolina | Harris Teeter (5563 Western Blvd., Raleigh) | by July 20, 2025 |
| Tennessee | 1664 East Done Drive, Kingsport | September 19, 2025 |
| Texas | 1707 W University Drive, McKinney | Date TBD |
| 3410 Gulf Freeway, Dickinson | June 10, 2025 | |
| Virginia | 1904 Emmett St., Charlottesville | August 22, 2025 |
| 466 S Cummings St., Abingdon | September 19, 2025 | |
| Harris Teeter (8200 Crestwood Heights Dr., McLean) | by July 20, 2025 | |
| Harris Teeter (950 S George Mason Dr., Arlington) | by July 20, 2025 | |
| Harris Teeter (3600 S Glebe Rd., Arlington) | August 4, 2025 | |
| West Virginia | 2908 State St., Gassaway | August 22, 2025 |
| Wisconsin | Pick ’n Save stores in Glendale, Milwaukee & Oak Creek | Dates TBD |
Note: TBD indicates dates not yet confirmed publicly.
What This Means for Shoppers & Communities
- Customers may see fewer options in certain neighborhoods—plan ahead if your local Kroger is closing.
- Employees affected by closures will be offered roles at nearby Kroger family stores.
- Local Economy could experience shifts in grocery access, especially in rural areas with limited alternatives.
How to Check Your Store’s Status
- Visit Kroger.com: Use the Store Locator and look for closure notices on individual store pages.
- Local News & UFCW Alerts: Regional media outlets and United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW) union posts often break closure news early.
- In-Store Signage: Look for prominently displayed flyers near entrances.
What Kroger Plans Next
- New Store Openings: At least 30 new locations in high-growth regions are slated for 2025–2026.
- Renovations & Upgrades: Many remaining stores will get fresh interiors, expanded digital kiosks, and improved online pickup areas.
- Reinvested Savings: The $100 million savings from store closures will fuel technology upgrades, loyalty program enhancements, and community initiatives.
Final Thoughts
Kroger’s decision to close 60 stores reflects a broader trend in retail: optimizing footprints to meet shifting consumer habits. By focusing on stronger markets and reinvesting in store experiences, Kroger aims to stay competitive against rivals like Walmart and Target. If your neighborhood store is on the list, explore transfer options if you’re an associate, or find your new go-to grocery spot nearby.
Stay informed by checking Kroger’s official updates and local news—your next store trip may look a little different!