Ahold Delhaize, the Netherlands-based owners of Stop & Shop, Food Lion and Hannaford, said it will close several underperforming Stop & Shop stores by 2028.
Supermarket News first reported the announcement after CEO Frans Muller said Thursday the supermarket chain will move forward with some closures, having completed an evaluation of Stop & Shop’s portfolio.
JJ Fleeman, CEO of Ahold Delhaize USA, said the “revitalization” of Stop & Shop will include around 1,000 store remodels and new stores across the country.
Caroline Medeiros, corporate communications manager for the supermarket chain, said over 190 store remodels have already been completed.
“We’re committed to continuing to invest in our stores, as well in our prices, to deliver a great in-store experience and great values for our customers,” she said. “Stop & Shop will make some difficult decisions to close select underperforming store locations to help ensure the long-term health and future growth for our business.”
As of April 16, Stop & Shop operated 397 stores, including 15 in Westchester, four in Rockland and one in Putnam.
The company has not yet released the number of stores closing, dates or locations.
The company said it is also making an effort to switch membership and loyalty programs from physical cards and coupons to a digital app system.
“I am encouraged by the numerous avenues we have across our great local brands to realize our growth potential,” Muller said in a new release Thursday. “By focusing on the things we do exceptionally well, we are together committed to fulfill these ambitions. By taking bigger steps, investing in our people and leveraging technologies, we are excited to unlock our purpose.”