A longtime California grocery store chain is preparing to disappear from its hometown, bringing an end to a nearly five-decade run. The closures will also affect more than 100 employees as the family behind the business prepares to step away.
O’Brien’s Market, a family-owned grocery chain that has served California’s Central Valley since 1978, is closing its two remaining stores in Modesto. The company operates locations on Dale Road and West Roseburg Avenue, with both stores scheduled to close in late September.
Two stores set to close
According to reports, the Roseburg Square location is set to close on September 26 and the Dale Road location will follow closely and close on September 27.
The closures could affect approximately 117 workers between the two locations — 67 at Dale Road and 50 at Roseburg Avenue.
O’Brien’s is reportedly exploring a potential sale of the Roseburg Avenue location. However, no final agreement had been reached, meaning the store could still close if a buyer is not found.
A nearly 50-year grocery legacy
Chuck O’Brien founded the business in 1978 after beginning his career in the grocery industry while still in high school. The company eventually expanded to multiple Central Valley locations, including stores in Modesto and Riverbank.
O’Brien’s sold its Riverbank store to Cost Less Food Company in 2024, leaving the two Modesto locations as its final stores.
The company has attributed the decision to a difficult business climate and lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Founder Chuck O’Brien is also retiring.
The closures will mark the end of O’Brien’s Market after nearly 50 years of serving local shoppers.
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