Kroger’s Sister Store Closing Down U.S Locations
Mariano’s, a Midwest grocery chain owned by Kroger, is closing down three of its Chicago-area stores by August. The affected locations include Buffalo Grove, Bloomingdale, and Northbrook. The decision follows the announced closure of the Northfield store, which is set to close its doors Friday—months ahead of its lease expiration.
Regional Closing Announcement
The company describes the move as part of a broader internal strategy to “operate efficiently” and maintain the long-term health of the business. Kroger acquired Mariano’s in 2015 through its purchase of Roundy’s Inc., and while the chain retains regional popularity, recent developments signal a shift in Kroger’s operational priorities.
Reddit users and local shoppers were quick to comment on the closures, particularly Northfield. Multiple customers cited its smaller layout and outdated design as primary reasons for falling foot traffic. Despite the store’s two-decade presence in the area, some reported already switching to competitors such as Jewel-Osco.
The closures will not result in mass layoffs. Kroger confirmed that employees from the affected locations have been offered transfers to other nearby stores. After these closures, approximately 40 Mariano’s stores will remain open.
Merger Fallout Compounds Business Pressures
This announcement arrives during a period of broader turbulence for Kroger. The company previously aimed to merge with Albertsons in a $25 billion deal that would have dramatically altered the national grocery market. Regulatory pushback from the Federal Trade Commission stalled the merger, ultimately leading to its termination in federal court. Albertsons subsequently exited the deal and sued Kroger, which responded with a countersuit. The legal proceedings are ongoing.
Despite the failed merger, Kroger continues to face scrutiny over how it balances expansion with efficiency. As part of its restructuring efforts, the company has already begun shuttering select underperforming stores nationwide.
Growth Plans Proceed Despite Uncertainty
Even as it scales back in certain regions, Kroger is moving forward with its growth strategy. The company currently operates over 2,800 stores and intends to open approximately 30 new locations by the end of 2025. It has not been confirmed whether any of those stores will operate under the Mariano’s brand.
Additionally, over 60 closures are expected across Kroger’s various supermarket chains, including Harris Teeter and Pick ‘n Save. The company has not released a formal list of impacted locations.
Interim CEO Ron Sargent emphasized that new store openings remain a key lever for growth. “New store openings are the biggest driver of market share gains,” Sargent said, adding that investments would be made to accelerate expansion moving forward.
The future of Mariano’s, once a rapidly growing staple in the Illinois grocery scene, now hinges on how Kroger navigates competitive pressures and internal restructuring efforts.
