The decision to close a Pick ‘n Save supermarket in Milwaukee’s Metcalfe Park neighborhood, and other store closings, are being criticized by city officials
The supermarket, at 2355 N. 35th St., is one of five Milwaukee-area Pick ‘n Saves that will be shuttered, according to Cincinnati-based Kroger Co., which owns the chain.
The closings are part of a decision to run more efficiently and ensure Kroger’s long-term health, the company says.
Kroger hasn’t responded to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s requests for more information about why the Metcalfe Park store is shutting down. Its 2001 opening was seen as a big boost for the neighborhood, which had long been underserved by retailers.
Kroger’s decision was discussed at the July 2 meeting of the Common Council’s Community and Economic Development Committee.
Many people walk or take the bus to buy food, said Alderwoman Sharlen P. Moore. If the store is gone, they may have nowhere close to shop.
“This impacts our city,” Moore said. “They’re closing quite a bit of grocery stores that are in neighborhoods that absolutely have no access to groceries.”
Alderman Russell W. Stamper, whose district includes Metcalfe Park, said there will be a town hall meeting to discuss the closings. It will be July 7, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 3624 W. North Ave.
“The main point of the meeting is to see why they’re leaving and see if we can get an extension,” Stamper said.
Meanwhile, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic said Walgreens is also closing stores in Milwaukee. She said big companies are leaving and that’s not fair for people who need food and medicine.
“I think it’s unacceptable,” Dimitrijevic said.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Pick ‘n Save supermarket closing, other store closures, draw criticism from city officials
Reporting by Dakota Barnes-Rush, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
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