A POPULAR grocery store is closing its doors after 87 years.

The owners explained that the decision was difficult for them – and that it was due to the condition of the store itself.

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Walt’s Food Centers, a family-owned Chicago chain, will close its flagship store in South Holland on September 28.

“This decision was not made lightly and was influenced by current market conditions and the significant investment that would be required to improve and maintain our aging facilities,” said a letter posted outside the store.

The family-owned company is working on relocating its employees to other locations in the grocery chain.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support and loyalty you have shown us over the years,” the message said.

“It has been an honor to serve you and your families for many generations.”

COMMUNITY DESTROYED

News of the closure has deeply shocked community members, with shoppers sharing their reactions on social media.

“Wow! This is so sad. I didn’t grow up in South Holland, but I grew up as their neighbor to the east, in Calumet City. Walt’s has been there for as long as I can remember!” wrote one Facebook user.

“Ohhhhh that’s so sad – when I lived in South Holland for almost 38 years I used to shop there all the time – just a place to shop for the whole family,” said another.

“I hate that it’s closing! I love shopping there! It’s cheaper than other groceries around here! The staff said they only found out last week! I hate that they’re closing!!!” wrote a third.

“MORE THAN JUST A COMPANY”

The letter, taped to the South Holland branch, said Walt’s was “more than just a company; it was part of this special community where our journey began over 87 years ago.”

The small chain also has stores in Beecher, Crete, Homewood and Dyer, Indiana. The main store is in a suburb south of Chicago.

The grocery retailer has announced new special offers for the period from August 28 to September 3. It is unclear whether these special offers are related to the closure.

Walt’s previously closed a store in Frankfort in 2018. In June 2021, the chain closed its Tinley Park location, the Chicago Tribune, affiliated with Tribune Publishing, reports.

Another grocery store closure

Walt’s isn’t the only grocery chain under pressure, as another popular grocery store with hundreds of locations recently announced impending closure.

A Stop & Shop in Worcester, Massachusetts, will permanently close its doors before November 2nd.

Stephanie Cunha, the company’s regional retail communications director, said in a statement to MassLive that the decision was “final.”

“Retaining our team of outstanding employees has been a priority for us and affected employees at Stop & Shop stores will be offered other opportunities within the company,” Cunha told the outlet.

“Our Lincoln Street team will be relocated to neighbouring stores so customers will continue to see familiar faces when shopping at our other two Worcester stores.”

Although the exact date of the closure has not yet been confirmed, Cunha said customers would be alerted to the date through store signs and customer emails.

The Worcester closure is one of eight Stop & Shops that have closed their doors in the state so far this year, bringing the total number of closed locations to 32 across five states.

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