Stop & Shop, a prominent grocery chain in the northeastern United States, has revealed plans to close several stores as part of a strategic move to optimize its portfolio and focus on core markets where it can thrive. However, the company has not yet provided details on which specific locations will be affected, including those in Massachusetts.
The decision to close underperforming stores was announced on May 23 during the Investor Day of Stop & Shop’s parent company, Ahold Delhaize. JJ Fleeman, CEO of Ahold Delhaize USA, stated that the grocery chain had already evaluated its portfolio and would make difficult decisions to close underperforming stores to create a healthy store base for the long term and grow the brand.
When asked about the potential impact on Massachusetts stores, a spokesperson for Stop & Shop told Boston.com that it is “too early in the process to share any further information about any potential closures.”
Despite the impending closures, Stop & Shop has been investing in its stores, with about 190 locations undergoing remodels in recent years. Fleeman acknowledged that while Stop & Shop’s e-commerce model has been outperforming other stores under the parent company, it is not enough to prevent the need for closures.
“Stop and Shop has done a thorough evaluation and is focused on ensuring a stable and thriving future, which includes investments in price and customer service, along with optimizing the portfolio to focus on core markets where it can win,” Fleeman said.
Stop & Shop currently operates approximately 400 stores concentrated in the northeastern U.S., with about 125 locations in Massachusetts alone. The company remains committed to investing in its stores and prices to deliver a great in-store experience and value for its customers.
