National Grocery Chain Closure Hits Illinois and Wisconsin

Lately, I feel like many national chains and businesses have decided to cut back on their physical footprint. Now, in a recent wave of store closures, national grocery giant Kroger has confirmed that several of its locations will be shutting down. This includes locations in Illinois and Wisconsin, as well as nine other states. The decision is said to be part of a broader move to shutter 60 stores across the country due to underperformance.

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Kroger, one of the nation’s largest grocers, is making the cuts in an effort to streamline operations and focus on more profitable markets. The closures were outlined in a June 2025 business update, where company leadership explained that the impacted stores had consistently struggled financially.

In Illinois, a Kroger-owned location in Peoria is set to close its doors in early August. The store, located on North Sterling Avenue, has served the community for years but will cease operations as part of the company’s restructuring plan.

Wisconsin is facing more significant cuts. Five Pick ‘n Save stores (which are operated by Kroger) will be closing throughout the Milwaukee metro area. The affected locations include stores in Glendale, two sites in Milwaukee, South Milwaukee, and Oak Creek. The closures will immediately impact local shoppers and the employees who work there.

Kroger has said it will attempt to keep all affected staff members by offering transfers to nearby locations where possible. While this may soften the blow for employees, the store closings still raise concerns about adequate access to food.

Despite these closures, the company is not downsizing overall. Kroger has announced plans to invest billions in upgrades and automation across its remaining locations. It also continues to see growth in its private-label brands, which are becoming a more significant part of its business strategy.

Closing Area Kroger Locations

Illinois:

• Peoria: 3311 N. Sterling Avenue

Wisconsin:

• Glendale: 1735 W. Silver Spring Drive
• Milwaukee: 3701 S. 27th St.
• Milwaukee: 2355 N. 35th St.
• South Milwaukee: 2931 S. Chicago Ave.
• Oak Creek: 2320 W. Ryan Road

Kroger’s broader plan seems to be centered around long-term growth and operational efficiency. Still, the impact on Illinois and Wisconsin is immediate, with fewer grocery and convenience options and questions about what can replace these vital community resources.