Wisconsin-based retailer Shopko has announced it is closing more stores than it first expected.
Last December, Shopko officials said the company was closing dozens of stores in 19 states across the country including one in Presidio. Now, Shopko will shutter more store locations throughout West Texas.
Stores in Andrews, Monahans, Kermit and in Alpine will all close in the next few months. The announcement comes as Shopko filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy last month.
“This decision is a difficult, but necessary one,” said Shopko's Russ Steinhorst in a prepared statement. “In a challenging retail environment, we have had to make some very tough choices, but we are confident that by operating a smaller and more focused store footprint, we will be able to build a stronger Shopko that will better serve our customers, vendors, employees and other stakeholders through this process."
More than 250 stores will close, many of which are Shopko Hometown stores — the chain aimed at serving smaller communities.
The stores set to close have begun liquidation sales, according to the company, and are set to close in the coming months.
Of the five West Texas locations, the Presidio Shopko will close first, by March 2. The four other Shopko locations in West Texas are expected to close May 12.
Most of the locations set to close are Shopko Hometown stores — the chain aimed at serving smaller communities.
“Despite all of the stores’ efforts, as we reviewed the long-term outlook on profitability, sales trends, and potential growth we came to the difficult decision that it was necessary to close these stores,” said Shopko spokesperson Michelle Hansen.
Hansen says Shopko Hometown stores typically employ 10 and 25 full and part-time employees.
The retail shop was founded in 1962.
For a complete list of the Shopko stores in Texas and when they're expected to close click here.
