Stop & Shop says “difficult” store closure decisions are coming

BOSTON — Stop & Shop plans to close “underperforming” stores in the coming years.

The department store chain currently has nearly 400 stores in the Northeast, including 125 locations in Massachusetts.

Stop and shop Parent company Ahold Delzhaize made the announcement during its Strategy Day last week when it revealed a four-year plan for its brands.

“Stop & Shop has already evaluated its overall portfolio and will make difficult decisions to close underperforming stores to create a healthy long-term store base and grow the brand,” said JJ Fleeman, the company’s US CEO.

Stop & Shop “has a strong market share position, despite fierce competition” and has seen growth in its e-commerce and digital rewards programs, Fleeman says.

“But this is not enough, and this is not where we want to be or need to be,” he said.

Which Stop & Shop stores will close?

WBZ-TV reached out to Stop & Shop to find out how Massachusetts shoppers are affected by the news. “It is too early to share any additional information regarding potential store closures,” the company said.

“We have completed more than 190 remodels to date, which continue to perform well, and we are committed to continuing to invest in our stores — as well as our pricing — to deliver a great in-store experience and great values ​​for our customers,” a Stop & Shop spokesperson said in a statement.

The next step is to stop and shop

Fleeman also talked about the “next phase” for Stop & Shop, and what improvements customers might notice.

“This will include a more efficient organizational structure along with a focus on quality, fresh produce, well-stocked shelves, increased supply chain efficiency and great service in each of its stores,” he said.

Other major retailers have launched recently Summer deals On grocery stores for shoppers hit hard by inflation. Walmart and Target have announced price cuts on thousands of food and grocery items. And Low cost supermarket chain Aldi It said it would lower prices on 250 products for the promotion that will run through Labor Day.