🛒 Tacoma Fred Meyer Pacific Ave Is Closing

A longtime South End staple is shutting its doors as part of Kroger’s national store cuts — here’s what we know

If you live in South Tacoma, you’ve likely walked the aisles of this store, grabbed a coffee on your way in, or made a quick grocery run here on a busy evening. But this September, that routine is coming to an end.

The Fred Meyer on Pacific Avenue is officially set to close later this year, as part of a broader move by parent company Kroger, which is cutting approximately 60 underperforming stores across the country.

📉 Why It’s Closing
Kroger has kept its messaging short, citing “efficiency goals and long-term operational strategy” as the primary drivers. The company is streamlining operations nationwide as part of an effort to sharpen its bottom line — and unfortunately, that means some communities will lose stores that have been anchors for decades.

📍 A South End Staple
This Fred Meyer isn’t just a grocery store — for many, it’s been a central part of weekly routines, family memories, and community rhythms. From school supplies and birthday cards to emergency milk runs and Black Friday deals, the Pacific Ave location has served generations of South Tacoma families.

That’s what makes this closure feel personal.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 What Happens to the Employees?
According to Kroger, all affected employees are being offered transfers to other Fred Meyer or Kroger-affiliated locations. That includes nearby stores in Lakewood, Puyallup, and other surrounding areas.

Still, for many residents and workers, the loss of this specific store — in this specific part of Tacoma — represents more than just inconvenience. It’s a loss of accessibility in a neighborhood where retail options are already limited.

🚦 What Comes Next?
There’s been no word yet on what will replace the space or whether the property will be redeveloped. With Pacific Ave’s strategic location and growing traffic, it’s likely the site will attract interest — but as of now, there are no confirmed plans.

🧭 Final Thoughts
In a city like Tacoma — where growth and change are happening fast — store closures like this one can hit harder than expected. This Fred Meyer has been part of the neighborhood’s identity, and for many, its departure will leave a real gap.

Whether it was your regular grocery stop or a part of your childhood routine, this closure is a reminder that even the most familiar places aren’t forever.

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