Kroger Kicks Off Store Closures After Merger Falls Through

Grocery giant Kroger is closing approximately 60 underperforming stores across the U.S. after its planned $25-billion merger with Albertsons collapsed due to regulatory pressure. This move, which resulted in a $100 million impairment charge, is part of a broader strategy to increase efficiency, with the company aiming to reinvest savings into the customer experience and offer roles to affected associates at other locations. Alongside store closures, Kroger announced plans to lay off 1,000 corporate employees and accelerate new store openings in 2026 and beyond.