The Fresh Market Exiting 4 States

The Fresh Market will close 13 stores across the country by May 18, according to published reports. As a result of the move, the grocer is shuttering all of its locations in Texas, Iowa, Missouri and Kansas.

“The decision to close these stores is a difficult but necessary step, with the end goal of producing a stronger, more agile company,” noted The Fresh Market CEO Rick Anicetti. “This shift also allows us to focus our energy and resources on the growth of our remaining stores, as well as new stores we have planned in the future. We continue to pursue our strategy of offering exceptional products, engaging shopping experiences, and great customer service across all our stores.”

According to the company, affected associates can apply for jobs at other store locations and will receive severance pay.

The Greensboro, N.C.-based grocer, which was purchased earlier this year by New York-based private-equity firm Apollo Global Management LLC for $1.36 million in cash, currently operates 175 stores in 23 states across the country.