WEST VIRGINIA — As part of a nationwide restructuring strategy, the Kroger Co. has finalized plans to shutter dozens of underperforming locations through the first half of 2026. While the closures span multiple states, the impact is particularly concentrated in the Mountain State, where several long-standing neighborhood stores are set to cease operations this spring.
WEST VIRGINIA — As part of a nationwide restructuring strategy, the Kroger Co. has finalized plans to shutter dozens of underperforming locations through the first half of 2026. While the closures span multiple states, the impact is particularly concentrated in the Mountain State, where several long-standing neighborhood stores are set to cease operations this spring.West Virginia Closure Details
The upcoming closures in West Virginia represent a shift in the company's regional footprint, moving away from smaller, aging facilities toward consolidated "Marketplace" hubs.
Kanawha Valley Impact
The most significant changes are occurring in the Kanawha Valley, where the closure of two local staples is timed with the launch of a new flagship location.
- South Charleston: The store at Riverwalk Plaza is scheduled to close permanently in June 2026.
- Dunbar: The Dunbar Village Plaza location is also slated for closure in June 2026.
These two closures are directly linked to the opening of the massive $40 million Kroger Marketplace at Park Place in South Charleston. At roughly 122,000 square feet, this new facility will be the largest Kroger in West Virginia and is designed to serve as a regional anchor.
Central West Virginia Impact
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Gassaway: The location at 2908 State St. has been identified as part of this downsizing wave. As the smallest store in the Mid-Atlantic region, the facility's closure marks a significant shift for Braxton County residents, who previously relied on it for local essentials.
Kroger has stated that all associates at the South Charleston and Dunbar locations will be offered the opportunity to transfer to the new Park Place Marketplace. For those at the Gassaway location, lateral transfers to other regional stores are being coordinated to avoid job losses.
Shoppers are encouraged to use the company's mobile app to find their nearest location and manage prescription transfers, which will be handled automatically for most customers during the transition period.
Would you like me to look up the exact opening date for the new Park Place Marketplace or help you find the nearest alternative location to the Gassaway store?
Kroger closing West Virginia locations This video provides local news coverage of the community concerns and official statements regarding the Kroger closures specifically in the Gassaway and Braxton County areas of West Virginia.
