Kroger Closes 35+ Harris Teeter Stores by August 18 as 60-Store Overhaul Continues

Kroger is closing 35 stores and counting across nine banners, including Harris Teeter, as it executes a cost-cutting plan announced last year. The company aims to shutter 60 underperforming locations by December 31, 2026. Over 20 stores remain to close. The shutdowns follow court rulings that blocked Kroger’s $24.6 billion merger with Albertsons, forcing the grocer to restructure instead.

Why Kroger is closing stores

Kroger announced the closure plan in June 2025 after its merger with Albertsons fell apart due to court rulings. The company said the 60 locations were not delivering sustainable results. Kroger expects a modest financial benefit from the closures and will offer affected workers roles at other stores.

Harris Teeter locations already closed

Harris Teeter, which operates around 260 stores across eight states, has been among the hardest hit. Closed locations include stores in Arlington, Virginia (two locations), McLean, Virginia, Rockville, Maryland, and Charlotte, North Carolina. The chain cited strategic market reviews and changed business conditions as reasons for individual closures.

Kroger’s pivot to Giant Eagle acquisition

Instead of merging with Albertsons, Kroger announced plans last month to acquire Giant Eagle for $1.65 billion. The deal adds 197 supermarkets and 11 standalone pharmacies across Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, and Indiana. At least three closed locations are being replaced by larger Kroger Marketplace stores.

Store closures across nine banners

The 35 closures already completed span nine Kroger banners. Affected chains include Kroger, Fred Meyer, Fry’s Food and Drug, Harris Teeter, Jay C Food Stores, King Soopers, Mariano’s, Pick ‘n Save, and QFC. Closures have occurred in Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, Georgia, Illinois, California, Arizona, Maryland, and North Carolina. Just over 20 locations remain to close by year-end.

Final Thoughts

Kroger’s store closures reflect a strategic retreat from unprofitable locations after its failed Albertsons merger. With Meyka grading KR a B+ and four analysts rating it a buy, the restructuring aims to improve efficiency. Investors should monitor the remaining 20 closures and Giant Eagle integration progress.

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