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Yesterday's sale of the Fresh & Easy chain means that, unfortunately, some stores will be closing, but they'll be offering a 25 percent discount before they shut their doors.
The San Diego Union Tribune reports that Yucaipa Co. will acquire more than 150 out of the chain's 200 stores, along with its production facilities and distribution center in Riverside. That leaves 50 stores expected to be closed, including at least three in San Diego County.
Fresh & Easy spokesman Brendan Wonnacott confirmed to LAist that, while he didn't yet have a complete count or list of the Los Angeles-area locations that are closing, those that are being closed will be offering a 25 percent discount.
So if most the items at your local Fresh & Easy are 25 percent off, chances are it's one of the stores slated to be shut down within three months. Some stores began offering the discounts today, Wonnacott confirmed.
Yucaipa said that among the changes it plans to make are bringing in more local and healthful options. It will be introducing a new rewards program similar to the old one, but existing members will have to re-enroll since their personal information cannot be transferred. The company encouraged customers to use up their existing rewards before the transition.
Grocery analyst Jim Hertel of Willard Bishop told the Tribune that he doesn't anticipate major changes for the chain. "My guess is that Yucaipa has concluded that there's value in the Fresh & Easy proposition as it stands today," he said.
Related:
Fresh & Easy Grocery Chain Sold to Billionaire Buyer
