Shoppers in Maryland will soon have fewer options for grocery shopping. A well-known grocery store chain has announced it will close three stores in one county because it is not making enough money to keep them open.
People who usually shop at Shoppers Grocery Stores in Maryland will face disappointing news next month.
Three Stores Closing in St. Mary's County
Southern Maryland News Net reports that a well-liked store chain will close three St. Mary's County stores next month.
Customers can buy their favorite items from the stores until April 27, 2024. Meanwhile, the staff will continue to work until May 10, 2024.
Jeff Bleichner, the store's vice president of operations, announced the closures.
The affected locations include:
22599 MacArthur Blvd, California, MD 20619
37670 Mohawk Drive, Charlotte Hall, MD 20622
40845 Merchants Lane, Leonardtown, MD 20650
This decision is part of the chain's regular review of its stores' sales and profitability. According to the company's Vice President, these three stores did not meet company standards.
The Vice President also expressed that while they know these closures' significant impact on the community and the employees, the company is committed to facilitating a smooth transition for those affected.
Despite these changes, the grocery chain, which boasts 57 locations across Maryland, Northern Virginia, Delaware, and Washington D.C., emphasizes its ongoing effort to maintain a strong presence in the region.
Shoppers, a supermarket chain known for its wide range of products and commitment to low prices, proudly maintains its "Everyday Low Warehouse Pricing" approach. This promise is highlighted on the company's website, assuring customers of variety and affordability in their shopping experience.
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Originally founded in 1949 as Jumbo Food Stores, the company underwent a significant transformation in 1999, rebranding itself as United Natural Foods.
Over the years, Shoppers expanded its reach by taking over several locations previously owned by McKay's, another shopping center chain that left the state.
This expansion has allowed Shoppers to serve a wider community, sticking to its roots of offering comprehensive services at competitive prices.
Growing Concerns Amidst Retail Closures
Community members are voicing concerns over the future of the Shoppers grocery chain following recent store closures. In an online Maryland forum, customers shared their worries, with one noting the low turnout even on busy shopping days. Another lamented the high prices at the Charlotte Hall location, which deterred them from returning.
Beyond economic challenges, safety concerns are also deterring shoppers. Local business owner Debbie Lea highlighted issues with gangs and insufficient police presence, making people hesitant to visit certain areas.
The retail landscape in Maryland is shifting, with significant names like Walmart and Starbucks closing locations due to decreased profits or crime. The Walmart in Townson is shutting down, sparking a rush for 50% markdowns, while Starbucks exited a downtown spot amid safety concerns confirmed by neighboring businesses and frequent police visits.
These closures reflect broader issues of safety and economic viability, raising alarms about the local retail and social environment's future stability.
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