J.J. Fleeman, CEO of Ahold Delhaize USA announced that a number of underperforming Stop & Shop locations would be closed. Specifics on locations and timing will be made later in the year.  Ahold will rely less on number of locations and more on a “growing together" strategy with an emphasis on technology, automation, and an omni-channel approach to sales.  A combination of in-store apps and websites favors mature markets in affluent areas.

Ahold Delhaize operates 397 stores in the U.S. although the number to be closed has yet to be revealed.  The parent company in Holland anticipates saving $5 billion over the proximal four years by application of technology inherent to the adopted “growing together” strategy.