Kroger Announces Store Closures in Four States for August 2025
Cincinnati, Ohio, August 16, 2025 — Kroger, one of the largest supermarket chains in the United States, is set to close several stores in August 2025 as part of a broader strategy to shutter 60 locations nationwide over the next 18 months. The closures, affecting stores in Georgia, Illinois, Virginia, and West Virginia, are aimed at eliminating underperforming locations to boost financial performance and reinvest in customer experience. Here’s what you need to know about the closures happening this month.
Details of the Closures
In June 2025, Kroger announced plans to close approximately 60 stores across the U.S., representing about 2% of its 2,731 locations, as part of a restructuring effort. Interim CEO Ron Sargent stated during a first-quarter earnings call that the closures target unprofitable stores to streamline operations. The company, which operates under banners like Kroger, Mariano’s, and Harris Teeter, has pledged to offer alternative roles to all affected employees at nearby stores.
The following stores are confirmed to close in August 2025, based on reports from the United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW) union and local media:
- Georgia:
- 11877 Douglas Road, Alpharetta, GA; closing August 16 (per Fox 5 Atlanta and Atlanta News First)
- Illinois:
- Mariano’s, 144 S Gary Ave., Bloomingdale, IL; closing August 15 (per NBC 5 Chicago)
- Mariano’s, 2323 Capital Dr., Northbrook, IL; closing August 22 (per NBC 5 Chicago)
- Virginia:
- 1904 Emmett Street, Charlottesville, VA; closing August 22 (per UFCW Local 400)
- West Virginia:
- 2908 State St., Gassaway, WV; closing August 22 (per UFCW Local 400)
These closures are part of a larger wave, with additional stores slated to shut down in September and October in states like Georgia, Tennessee, and Virginia. Kroger has not released a full list of the 60 stores, but local media and union reports have identified these locations.
Why Is Kroger Closing Stores?
Kroger’s decision to close stores stems from a focus on profitability. Interim CEO Ron Sargent noted that the targeted locations were not delivering sustainable financial results. The company expects “modest financial benefits” from the closures, which will be reinvested into improving customer experiences, such as store renovations and expansions. Kroger has also committed to spending $3.6 to $3.8 billion in 2025 on capital expenditures, including new store openings and upgrades to existing locations.
The closures follow significant internal changes at Kroger, including the resignation of former CEO Rodney McMullen in March 2025 amid an ethics investigation. The company is also navigating challenges related to a proposed merger with Albertsons, which has drawn scrutiny and legal fees.
Impact on Employees and Communities
Kroger has assured that all employees at closing stores will be offered positions at other locations to minimize job losses. However, the UFCW Local 400 has criticized the closures, arguing that they will harm communities, particularly in rural areas where grocery options are limited. “Closing these stores will not only result in fewer good, union job opportunities, it will further limit food access in rural areas where there are few if any alternatives,” said UFCW Local 400 President Mark Federici.
The closures raise concerns about potential “food deserts” in affected areas, where residents may struggle to access affordable groceries. This is particularly significant in smaller communities like Gassaway, West Virginia, where the loss of a Kroger store could have a substantial impact.
Broader Context
Kroger operates over 2,700 stores across 35 states and Washington, D.C., under various banners, including Ralphs, Fred Meyer, and King Soopers. The company, founded in 1883 in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a major player in the U.S. retail sector, with annual revenues of approximately $147 billion and a workforce of over 400,000. The decision to close stores comes amid broader retail challenges, with other chains like At Home, Wahlburgers, and Hooters also announcing closures in 2025.
The closures are part of Kroger’s strategy to remain competitive in a rapidly changing retail landscape. By focusing on high-performing stores and investing in new locations, the company aims to strengthen its market position while addressing economic pressures.
What’s Next?
While August marks the closure of the five listed stores, more are expected in the coming months. Confirmed closures for September and October include locations in Decatur and Brookhaven, Georgia; Kingsport, Tennessee; and Abingdon, Virginia. Kroger’s reluctance to release a full list of closures has sparked frustration among customers and workers seeking clarity.
For shoppers in the affected areas, Kroger encourages visiting nearby stores or utilizing online shopping options. The company remains committed to its long-term growth, with plans to open 30 new stores in 2025 and 2026.
This story will be updated as more closure details emerge. For the latest news on retail and business, visit www.nriglobe.com.
