Kroger to Close 60 Stores Nationwide, Including Maryland Location
Rockville, MD – Kroger, a leading grocery chain in the U.S., has announced plans to close 60 stores nationwide over the next 18 months. Among the closures is the Harris Teeter store located at 11845 Old Georgetown Road in Rockville, Maryland, which is set to close by July 20.
The decision to shutter these locations comes as part of Kroger’s strategy to address underperforming stores and focus on more profitable operations. Interim CEO Ron Sargent explained that the closures, representing about 2% of Kroger’s 2,731 stores, are necessary to streamline the company’s footprint and reinvest in growth. Kroger plans to spend between $3.6 billion and $3.8 billion this year on capital expenditures, including building new stores and renovating existing ones.
The Rockville Harris Teeter has been a popular shopping destination for local residents, offering a wide selection of groceries and services. However, the company has assured that employees at the closing location will be offered roles at other nearby stores.
The news has left Rockville residents disappointed, as the store has been a convenient and reliable option for the community. Many are now left wondering how the closure will impact their shopping routines and the local economy.
While Kroger has not released a complete list of the 60 stores set to close, reports indicate that locations in Georgia, Illinois, Texas, and other states are also affected. The closures reflect the challenges traditional grocery chains face in a competitive market dominated by online and discount retailers.
Source | USA Today
