Kroger, one of the largest supermarket chains in the United States, has announced it will close around 60 stores over the next 18 months. The decision comes as part of a planned effort to reshape its store network and focus on stronger-performing locations.
Unlike recent retail closures that have come as a surprise to shoppers, Kroger’s move is deliberate and strategic. The company is closing underperforming stores that no longer fit its long-term goals, allowing it to reallocate resources where demand is higher and the potential for growth is stronger.
At the same time, Kroger is not retreating from physical retail. It plans to open 30 new stores by the end of 2025, targeting areas with growing populations and market potential. The company is also continuing to invest in e-commerce, expanding its delivery and pickup services to meet customer expectations for convenience.
While the closures will impact some local communities, Kroger has said that employees at affected locations will be offered roles in nearby stores. The company’s broader strategy reflects the need to stay competitive in a fast-changing retail landscape, where consumer habits and expectations are shifting rapidly.
This move marks a significant chapter in Kroger’s ongoing transformation, as it works to build a more efficient and resilient operation for the future.