Kroger will offer roles in other stores to all associates currently employed at affected stores,” the company said in an earnings report

Kroger plans to close about 60 stores over the next 18 months. In the national grocery chain’s first quarter sales report, it said it expects a “modest financial benefit” as a result of the move. “Kroger will offer roles in other stores to all associates currently employed at affected stores,” the company announced.

Kroger will close around 60 stores across 16 states over the next 18 months, the company said in its latest earnings report. The move is part of a plan to improve operations and reduce costs. Affected employees will be offered jobs at other Kroger locations.