Seven Save A Lot grocery stores across Chicago's south and west sides are shutting down.
Save A Lot has been in an agreement with Yellow Banana to operate the seven Chicago stores, but the company tells WBBM business has declined significantly in the last year, with cuts to SNAP benefits leading to a 26% decline in SNAP/EBT Debit card business.
WBBM went to the Save A Lot location at 420 South Pulaski and spoke to several customers and employees who are upset, saying the closure will be devastating to the neighborhood, which is feared to become a "food desert."
One of those losing his job is Keyoga Robinson, who said, "We have to go look for new jobs, it's hard to find one. It's really bothering us, it really is. We're not happy about the situation. At all. I feel just like the people who come here and shop with us. It's a loss."
"I really feel for the community, it's a shame. I grew up on the West Side of Chicago and there's been a really big change in our neighborhood, due to certain circumstances and I hate to see that. But hopefully we'll be back open again, but it'll take some time."
