Kroger is preparing to close roughly 60 underperforming grocery stores across the United States as the supermarket giant reshapes its business following the collapse of its proposed merger with Albertsons.
The company says the closures will occur between 2026 and 2027, and are part of a broader strategy to cut costs, improve efficiency, and redirect investments into stronger-performing markets and lower prices for shoppers.
Closures expected across multiple states
While Kroger has not released a complete official closure list, reports and local announcements suggest stores in several states could be affected.
Among the states already linked to confirmed or expected closures are:
- California
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Maryland
- North Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
Several Kroger-owned banners are also impacted, including Harris Teeter, Mariano’s, QFC, Fry’s Food and Drug, King Soopers, Fred Meyer, and Pick ’n Save locations.
One recent example is a Harris Teeter location in Albemarle, North Carolina, which is scheduled to close in June after what the company described as a review of the store’s “long-term business viability.”
Failed merger still reshaping grocery industry
The closures come months after Kroger’s proposed merger with Albertsons fell apart under regulatory pressure. Since then, the company has focused on trimming weaker stores while continuing to expand in select high-growth regions.
Executives have emphasized that Kroger still plans to open new locations in stronger markets, particularly in fast-growing parts of Texas and the Southeast. The company has also announced plans to lower prices on thousands of grocery items in an effort to compete more aggressively with Walmart, Costco, and Aldi.
Industry pressure continues to build
Kroger’s downsizing reflects broader pressure across the grocery industry as chains deal with inflation, rising labor costs, changing shopping habits, and fierce competition from discount retailers.
Retail analysts say additional grocery closures nationwide are likely throughout 2026 as companies continue consolidating operations and focusing on profitability.
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