Grocery Outlet Closing Stores Across Ohio

Discount grocery chain cites rising costs and shifting consumer trends as reasons for shutdowns.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Grocery Outlet, a discount grocery store chain, has announced plans to close several of its locations across Ohio in the coming months. The company cited rising operational costs and changing consumer shopping habits as the primary drivers behind the decision to shutter these stores.

Why it matters

The closures will impact communities that have relied on Grocery Outlet as an affordable grocery option, potentially creating 'food deserts' in some areas. The news also reflects broader challenges facing the retail grocery industry as it navigates inflationary pressures and evolving customer preferences.

The details

Grocery Outlet operates over 400 stores across the United States, with a significant presence in the Midwest and West Coast regions. In Ohio, the company has shuttered locations in Coshocton, Zanesville, and Marietta, with plans to close additional stores in the coming months. Company officials cited rising labor, transportation, and inventory costs as key factors driving the decision, along with a shift towards online grocery shopping and delivery services.

  • Grocery Outlet announced the store closures on March 8, 2026.
  • The Coshocton, Zanesville, and Marietta locations will cease operations by the end of May 2026.

The players

Grocery Outlet

A discount grocery store chain with over 400 locations across the United States, known for offering deeply discounted food and household items.

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What they’re saying

“The rising costs of doing business, combined with changing consumer preferences, have made it increasingly difficult to maintain profitability at some of our Ohio locations.”

— Eric Lindberg, CEO, Grocery Outlet (usatoday.com)

What’s next

Grocery Outlet plans to focus its efforts on expanding in other regions where the company sees more favorable market conditions and growth opportunities.

The takeaway

The Grocery Outlet closures in Ohio reflect the broader challenges facing the retail grocery industry, as companies navigate rising costs, shifting consumer behaviors, and increased competition from online and delivery-based services.