Haggen Market, a Northwest-based grocer that opened 25 stores in San Diego County just last March, will be laying off more than 700 workers in the coming months and cut back workers’ hours.
"To ensure we’re operating as efficiently as possible, we have made the very difficult decision to temporarily cut back on staff hours at our stores, with specific reductions varying by store.We value the contributions these employees have made, and are committed to treating all employees respectfully and professionally through this transition," Haggen Southwest CEO Bill Shaner said in a statement this week.
A temporary glitch during the opening in March caused a firestorm on social media after around 1000 items were priced too high.
The grocer is also suffering legal issues. Albertsons is suing the chain for $36 million worth of inventory it says Haggen did not pay after an agreement when the store was bought out.
The FTA forced Albertsons and Safeway (Vons) to sell 168 of their stores after they merged.
The staff reductions will be implemented in South California, Nevada, and Arizona stores.
