Ultra Foods Layoffs Announced

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Illinois-based Central Grocers Inc., the co-op that owns Strack & Van Til, has detailed the timeline of the closure of its Ultra Foods discounted supermarkets in Gary and Merrillville. In a notice to the state, the co-op says the stores will close by June 17, leaving nearly 175 employees out of work.

Central Grocers announced earlier this week plans to sell its 22 Strack & Van Til stores and close its nine Ultra Foods stores, including the two in Indiana.  The Stracks stores are expected to stay open under the new, yet-to-be-named owner.

The majority of the jobs affected by the closure are clerk positions. A few of the positions, including head meat cutters, assistant meat managers, seafood leaders and journeymen and apprentices have bumping rights.

The other Ultra Foods stores expected to close are located in Illinois cities, including Lansing, Crestwood, Wheaton, Joliet, Chicago Heights, Calumet Park and Forest Park.