Kroger stores closing have sent ripples through communities across the United States, with the grocery giant announcing plans to shutter multiple locations in 2025. As of June 24, 2025, Kroger confirmed the closure of four stores in metro Atlanta, part of a broader strategy to close approximately 60 stores nationwide over the next 18 months. This decision, driven by the need to streamline operations amid economic challenges, has left shoppers and employees wondering about the future of their local stores. Let’s dive into the latest developments surrounding these closures, focusing on what’s happening, why, and what it means for customers.
Why Are Kroger Stores Closing?
Kroger’s decision to close stores stems from a mix of economic pressures and strategic business moves. The company reported a slight dip in first-quarter sales, dropping from $45.3 billion in 2024 to $45.1 billion in 2025. Despite a 3.7% rise in comparable sales (excluding fuel and specialty pharmacy items), some locations are underperforming. Interim CEO Ron Sargent emphasized efficiency, stating the closures aim to make the company leaner while redirecting sales to nearby stores. Rising operational costs, inflation, and competition from discount chains and online retailers also play a role. Kroger’s focus is shifting toward growth areas like e-commerce, pharmacy, and fresh food sales, which saw strong performance in 2025.
The closures affect about 5% of Kroger’s 1,239 branded stores across 16 states. While the company hasn’t released a full list of affected locations, metro Atlanta’s four stores are among the first confirmed. These closures follow a turbulent period for Kroger, including a failed merger with Albertsons and the resignation of former CEO Rodney McMullen in March 2025 after an ethics investigation.
Metro Atlanta’s Kroger Stores Closing: Details
Metro Atlanta is feeling the impact of Kroger stores closing, with four locations set to shut down between July and October 2025. Here’s a breakdown of the affected stores:
- Atlanta: 2452 Morosgo Way, closing July 19, 2025. This 84,000-square-foot store, opened in 2016 near the Lindbergh MARTA station, features modern amenities like a Starbucks and a pickup area but lacks a drive-thru pharmacy or fuel center.
- Alpharetta: 11877 Douglas Road, closing August 16, 2025.
- Decatur: 3479 Memorial Drive, closing September 13, 2025. Located in Belvedere Plaza, this store offers fuel and “Citi Center” branding with community businesses like a nail salon.
- Brookhaven: 3855 Buford Highway, closing October 18, 2025.
Kroger has promised to offer all affected employees transfers to nearby stores, ensuring no immediate job losses. Each closed store has at least one other Kroger within five miles, which may ease the transition for shoppers. However, customers like Steven Runge in Atlanta expressed frustration, noting the Morosgo Way store’s size and convenience make it hard to replace.
Key Point Summary
- Nationwide Scope: Kroger plans to close 60 stores across 16 states by late 2026.
- Metro Atlanta Impact: Four stores in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Decatur, and Brookhaven will close by October 2025.
- Employee Support: All workers will be offered transfers to other Kroger locations.
- Economic Drivers: Closures aim to boost efficiency amid slight sales declines and rising costs.
- Customer Alternatives: Nearby Kroger stores and competitors like Aldi and Walmart remain options.
Community Reactions and What’s Next
The news of Kroger stores closing has sparked concern in affected communities. In Decatur, the Belvedere Plaza closure is a blow, though nearby Aldi and Walmart Supercenter provide alternatives. Social media platforms like Instagram show Atlantans sharing nostalgic posts about their local Kroger, with some lamenting the loss of convenient shopping. On YouTube, local news channels have covered the closures, highlighting shopper disappointment and the economic context. One user commented, “It’s tough seeing these big stores go, but times are changing.”
Kroger’s strategy moving forward involves reinvesting savings into customer experience, particularly in pharmacy and online sales, which grew 15% in Q1 2025. The company also faces increased competition from Publix, which holds 20.5% of Atlanta’s grocery market compared to Kroger’s 21.3% in 2024. As Kroger navigates these changes, shoppers may see more focus on digital services and smaller, high-performing stores.
Looking Ahead for Shoppers
For customers impacted by Kroger stores closing, the transition may mean adjusting to new shopping routines. Kroger’s commitment to keeping employees in nearby roles offers some reassurance, but the loss of familiar stores stings. Shoppers in metro Atlanta and beyond can explore other Kroger locations, check out competitors, or lean into online grocery options. As the grocery landscape evolves, staying informed about local store changes is key.
Stay updated on Kroger’s plans and find alternative shopping options by checking local news or visiting Kroger’s website for store locator tools.