Several stores operated by Kroger are set to close in California, marking another sign of the mounting pressure facing traditional grocery chains. The company announced plans to shutter multiple locations and lay off more than 170 employees, citing changing market conditions and efforts to streamline operations.
Multiple California stores set to close
On February 27, 2026, Cincinnati-based grocery giant Kroger filed WARN notices with the California Employment Development Department, confirming it will close several California stores in the coming months as part of a broader evaluation of underperforming locations. The closures affect stores operating under the Ralphs and Food 4 Less banners, both owned by Kroger.
According to filings and company statements, the move will impact more than 170 workers across the three affected stores. Employees have been notified through WARN notices, which are required when large layoffs or closures occur.
Timeline and impacted stores
According to reports, this is the anticipated timeline of the closures:
March 14, 2026: Foods Co. in Fresno, CA to close on (49 layoffs), as well as Foods Co. in Sacramento, CA (58 layoffs)…