Natural Grocers has announced the closure of its Downtown Denver store located at the corner of Colfax and Washington, with the final day of operation set for October 31. The store will kick off a closing sale on October 4, offering a 10% discount on all items in the store. It is crucial for shoppers to note that all sales will be final.
This location is one of 46 Natural Grocers branches in Colorado, the company’s home state. The decision to shut down this store was made after careful consideration of multiple operational challenges. Chief among these concerns are retail theft and safety issues, which have adversely impacted the store’s performance, highlighting a growing concern within the retail sector.
According to Kemper Isely, co-president of Natural Grocers, the company has invested significant resources into security and loss prevention measures at the Colfax and Washington store. However, despite these efforts, the ongoing issues of theft and safety have made it increasingly difficult to operate efficiently and securely. Isely emphasized, “This was not an easy decision. We are grateful to our Crew members who have worked to provide world-class customer service in challenging circumstances.”
The closure reflects broader trends in the retail industry, where theft has become a major problem. A recent survey indicated that grocery stores are particularly vulnerable, making them easier targets for shoplifters. This trend poses a significant risk not only to the financial stability of stores but also to the overall shopping experience for consumers.
In light of this closure, Natural Grocers is committed to its remaining staff, known as the good4u Crew. The company is actively working to provide transfer opportunities to affected employees, ensuring that they have a chance to continue their work at nearby locations. For those who cannot transfer, Natural Grocers will offer transition packages that include severance pay and health benefits.
For customers accustomed to shopping at the Downtown Denver location, several alternative Natural Grocers stores remain open in the area. Shoppers can visit the following locations: Leetsdale and Alameda, RiNo at 38th and Brighton, Design District on Alameda and Broadway, Central Park, Tennyson and 38th, and Colorado and Evans. This approach aims to minimize disruption for loyal customers as the company continues to serve the community nearby.
In contrast to this closure, Natural Grocers is expanding its footprint in other regions. A new store is set to open in Waco, Texas, this winter. The company hosted a Meet & Greet event in Waco on September 10 and a two-day hiring event on September 11 and 12, showcasing its ongoing commitment to growth and recruitment in new markets.
Established in Lakewood, Colorado, Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage Inc. operates more than 160 stores across 21 states, making it a significant player in the natural and organic grocery landscape. The retailer ranks 95th on The PG 100, Progressive Grocer’s annual listing that highlights the top food and consumables retailers in North America.
As the grocery landscape continues to evolve, incidents of theft and safety concerns present complex challenges for retailers everywhere. The closure of the Downtown Denver store serves as a critical case study in how operational difficulties, including security risks, can lead to significant strategic decisions in the retail sector. Companies must balance the need for security and customer service while navigating a rapidly changing marketplace.
In conclusion, while the closure is unfortunate for the Downtown Denver community, Natural Grocers remains dedicated to providing excellent service across its remaining locations. The retailer aims to ensure that affected employees are supported during this transition and remains focused on expansion in other regions to better serve its customers.
