Stop & Shop to Close 9 Locations: Customers Express Shock and Disappointment
According to The Sun, Recently announced closures of Stop & Shop locations in New Jersey have not come as a surprise to many shoppers. Although some residents had anticipated the shutdowns to happen sooner, they still have a few weeks to gather their groceries before the stores close their doors.
Confirmed Store Closures
In July, Stop & Shop confirmed that it would be shutting down 32 locations nationwide by the end of 2024, with at least 10 of those closures happening in New Jersey. Residents will have until November 2 to shop at the affected stores, but some may close even earlier. For instance, a store in Phillipsburg, approximately 60 miles west of Newark, closed its doors last week after moving its closing date up to October 23, and then September 9, according to TAPinto. Employees at that location noted that they were running out of food and merchandise faster than anticipated.
Customers are advised to be cautious as similar situations could arise at the remaining nine locations.
Mixed Feelings Among Shoppers
The community has mixed feelings about the closures. One shopper expressed surprise that a location had remained open for this long, given its proximity to a Target and a Walmart. Another customer shared their sadness, stating they frequently shopped at Stop & Shop. Conversely, some shoppers expressed relief, with one stating, “Good riddance.”
Employee Opportunities
Stop & Shop has confirmed that all employees at the closing stores in New Jersey will have the opportunity to transfer within the company. Following the shutdowns, the chain will still operate 48 stores across the state.
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The remaining closures this year will affect locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island.
Commitment to Communities
Gordon Reid, president of Stop & Shop, emphasized the company’s commitment to nourishing the communities where stores remain. He stated, “Stop & Shop is proud of the deep roots and community ties we have developed as a neighborhood grocer for more than 100 years.” Reid noted that the 32 stores being closed were considered “underperforming” and necessary for creating a healthy base for the future growth of the brand. He also acknowledged that Stop & Shop is “not where we want to be.”
Broader Retail Challenges
Shoppers at other popular retailers are also bracing for mass closures due to recent bankruptcy filings. Big Lots has recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, announcing a wave of 315 shutdowns across 35 states. Similarly, LL Flooring is changing its name and closing over 200 locations after a quiet bankruptcy filing in August.
