BREAKING: Stop & Shop has just announced the closure of two distribution centers in Norwalk and Windsor, Connecticut, set to take place this fall. This decision impacts the grocery chain’s e-commerce operations as it shifts strategies to enhance same-day delivery options for customers.
In a statement released on Monday, Jennifer Barr, director of external communications and community relations for Stop & Shop, confirmed the closures, stating, “We will no longer operate any warerooms for e-commerce distribution in the state of Connecticut with the closure of these two facilities.” This move is part of a larger initiative aimed at better meeting customer demand for a wider range of products and improved delivery times.
While the exact timeline for the closures remains unspecified, Barr reassured customers that home delivery orders would continue until the centers cease operations. “Stop & Shop has made the difficult decision to close our warerooms located in Windsor and in Norwalk this fall,” Barr added. She also emphasized that all affected associates would be offered other career opportunities within the company.
The closures come amidst a competitive landscape, with giants like Amazon ramping up their grocery delivery services. Last week, the Associated Press reported that Amazon plans to expand its perishable delivery service to over 1,000 cities, aiming for more than 2,300 by the end of the year.
Stop & Shop currently operates 83 stores in Connecticut, making it the largest grocery chain in the state. Notably, this announcement follows the closure of five Stop & Shop locations in cities including Ansonia and Danbury last fall, though four of those cities still have active Stop & Shop stores.
Customers in Connecticut can continue to shop online for pickup and home delivery after the distribution centers close. However, the company hopes that this shift will create a more efficient omnichannel customer experience, providing better options for same-day delivery and a broader assortment of products.
As this situation develops, customers and employees alike are watching closely for further announcements regarding the impact of these closures on local services. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story.
