Stop & Shop, a major US grocery chain operating more than 350 stores across five northeastern states, is closing at least four more locations in 2026. The closures follow a period of 18 months during which the company has shut dozens of stores as part of efforts to improve performance.
Details of the Latest Closures
The four stores set to close are located in New Jersey and Connecticut. They include stores at 553 S Finley Avenue, Basking Ridge, NJ; 2360 Lakewood Road, Toms River, NJ; 219 Elm Street, Westfield, NJ; and 215 E Main Street, Clinton, CT.
A Stop & Shop spokesperson said each closure decision was made independently and is not part of a broader plan. The company stated it does not have plans to close additional stores in the affected market at this time. Employees at the closing stores will be given the option to transfer to other locations.
Broader Trends in the Grocery Industry
Earlier in 2026, Stop & Shop closed seven e-commerce fulfillment warehouses across four states. The shift means store-level employees will now fulfill online orders directly. The closures come amid rising grocery prices. In June, US grocery bills rose 2.7% according to the Consumer Price Index, and are forecast to rise 2.9% in 2027 according to the US Department of Agriculture.
The affected communities will have fewer grocery options, forcing residents to travel further to alternative stores.
