Bloom to Close in 30 Days

Months after Walmart moved in next door, the on Lee Highway announced it will shut its doors for good. The grocer will close within 30 days.

The announcement came Tuesday from Delhaize America, the company that owns Bloom, Food Lion and Bottom Dollar Food. According to the company, a total of 126 grocery locations will close, seven of which display the Bloom banner.

The Fairfax Bloom isn't the only local shop affected by this latest announcement. Bloom at Fair Lakes, as well as 41 others in Virginia and Maryland, will be immediately converted into a Food Lion. 

Even though right next to Bloom in October, the closure appears to be part of a larger company dilemma. This is the last of Bloom as a grocery entity. Delhaize America plans to retire the Bloom logo. 

"Today's actions will continue to solidify our U.S. operations and enable our company to focus on our successful brand strategy repositioning at Food Lion and the expansion of Bottom Dollar Food in new markets," said Ron Hodge, CEO of Delhaize America, in the press release. "While these were difficult decisions given the impact on our associates, customers and communities, we believe these actions will enable us to better serve our customers in our markets with high density, while positioning the company for future growth."

Delhaize estimates approximately 4,900 employees will be displaced. The news release states that the company will provide severance to eligible associates, and will work with government officials to assist with transition support. Only employees working at converted stores will continue to work at those locations.

Read the full press release here.