A&P to close 25 locations as part of turnaround strategy

Montvale, N.J. The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co. said Friday that it will close 25 stores in five states as part of its turnaround strategy.

The operator of the A&P store chain said the affected stores include those that are in close proximity to others, facing real estate and cost issues and underperforming stores.

A&P president and CEO Sam Martin said the closures are "absolutely necessary to strengthen A&P's operating foundation and improve our performance going forward."

The closures are expected to be completed in the company's fiscal third quarter.