Sturgis grocery store to close

A grocery chain with a presence in Sturgis for nearly 100 years is closing next month.

Kroger’s Central Division announced Wednesday it will close the Sturgis store. Financial performance was cited as the key factor in the company’s decision.

According to a company media release, the Sturgis location has not operated profitably for a number of years and the company’s research concludes a turnaround is not realistic.

Severance will be offered to qualified employees based on length of service with the company. The store will close by the end of November, officials said.

Division leaders say they want to allow workers as much time as possible to find other employment.