Kroger is one of the biggest grocery store chains in the U.S., but the company announced plans to close more than 60 stores across the country over the next year and a half. The closures will put thousands of jobs at risk.
The Strategy to Close Stores
Changes in customer shopping habits, rising costs, and increased pressure from competition have contributed to the decision to shut the doors on some locations. The company is closing underperforming stores in an effort to realign finances.
Impact on Shoppers and Workers
For many shoppers, this will mean having to drive further for groceries if their local store closes. Not to mention, thousands of grocery store employees will lose their jobs.
Employees
Kroger stores typically employ between 100 and 150 workers, depending on location. Many of these workers will los their jobs in addition to close to 1,000 regional and corporate employees.
Kroger to Place Employees in Other Stores
Kroger did include in its announcement that it would try to place employees in other stores. However, this may not work for all employees as some stores will be too far of a commute. Some workers are choosing to accept severance packages instead.
