Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, SportsUPDATE: 164 Jobs to be Lost in Mercer and Tazewell Counties

UPDATE: 164 Jobs to be Lost in Mercer and Tazewell Counties

Kroger is set to shut down a pair of businesses in the two Virginias.

Bluefield Beverage Company leaders told employees on Thursday night the plant will close on April 27. Employees were told there have been significant changes in the beverage categories that have negatively impacted their business.

Meanwhile, employees who work at Kroger on Cumberland Road were informed on Friday, Jan. 27 that their store will closing its doors on March 30.

More than 164 workers and countless others who depend on Kroger for services could be impacted by the closing.

Carl York, a Public Relations Manager with Kroger, spoke with 59News to explain how the company arrived at this decision.

"Both those operations have been losing money for the past few years. We can't afford to operate those stores and still offer the great low prices. It was an economic decision really," said York.

According to York, Kroger is working with each full time employee to find a job within the organization. For those who are unable to find a job, the grocery giant will provide a severance and job placement services.