Kroger Plans to Close 60 Stores Over Next 18 Months

Cincinnati —The Kroger Co. has unveiled plans to close approximately 60 stores over the next 18 months. The closures represent about 5 percent of the Cincinnati-based grocer’s stores. Kroger says it is taking a $100 million impairment charge related to the store closings and is committed to reinvesting the savings back into the customer experience. As a result, Kroger says the closures will not impact its full-year guidance. The retailer will offer roles in other stores to all associates currently employed at affected stores. The grocer operates roughly 1,200 stores across 16 states.