On Tuesday, April 11, Walmart stated that it plans to close four failing Chicago branches, citing millions in yearly losses.
The Announcement
Walmart officials said that weak sales caused the closure. Despite efforts to improve the business performance of these locations, including minor shop construction, localized product selection, and a $70 million investment in store improvements and health clinics, management said that the outcomes fell short of their expectations.
According to the company, its eight Chicago outlets have not been profitable since its establishment 17 years ago. The pharmacies at the four locations will be open for up to 30 days after they close on April 16. Patients can begin a preferred transfer procedure until May 12 by calling or visiting the pharmacy.
As per CNBC reports, the locations are in Chicago’s Chatham, Little Village, Lakeview, and Kenwood neighborhoods.
The news comes only two months after the company closed its Lincolnwood pickup-only branch.
Employee Situation
All workers at these four outlets are eligible for transfers to other Walmart sites and will receive pay through August 11. Walmart said qualified employees would get severance compensation after that date. The business will continue to operate its other four locations in Chicago. The number of jobs affected still needs to be apparent.
This week, hiring managers from nearby facilities will visit each of these locations to assist employees in starting to look for their next opportunity.
The business stated that it intends to reuse the structures it would be leaving behind so they may continue to be “important parts of their communities.”
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