Kroger Plans Nationwide Closure of 60 Stores Over 18 Months

Costco announced that all its U.S. locations, including 14 stores in Minnesota, will be closed on the Fourth of July in 2025 to allow employees to celebrate the holiday with their families. Additionally, Kroger revealed plans to close approximately 60 underperforming stores nationwide over the next 18 months as part of a strategy to streamline operations and invest in higher-performing locations, though the specific stores to be closed have not been disclosed. Despite these closures, Kroger reported strong first-quarter sales in 2025, driven by growth in pharmacy, e-commerce, and fresh goods, and assured that employees at closing stores will be offered roles at other locations. Meanwhile, BJ’s Wholesale Club is expanding, with plans to open around 30 new stores, including a new location in Springfield, Massachusetts, expected to create 100-150 jobs, continuing its growth as a competitor to Costco. This mixed landscape reflects ongoing shifts in the American retail grocery sector, balancing closures for efficiency with strategic expansions. Consumers are encouraged to plan accordingly, especially around major holidays like Independence Day, when some retailers will be closed.