California grocery chain closes all stores after 49 years, lays off entire staff

Another California grocer is going dark.After nearly 50 years, O’Brien’s Market is calling it quits.The family-run grocery store will officially shut down its last two remaining stores after a 49-year run in central California.The O’Brien gang told its beloved customers the markets will be coming to an end on its website as it announced owner Charles “Chuck” O’Brien will be heading into retirement after years of unpredictable sales.“The current business climate has forced us to make some tough decisions.

And the decision to retire both O’Brien’s Markets was the most difficult decision of all,” the statement said.O’Brien’s Markets employs 117 workers who are set to lose their jobs by October.The two locations getting the boot: 4120 Dale Road and 839 W.

Roseburg Ave.The grocery stores said the Dale Road store will close down by October 4, 2026 “but no sooner.” The Roseburg spot may potentially remain open as a notice was given to The Modesto Focus alerting employees to a potential, outside buyer. If the deal goes through, the purchaser could hire the existing employees.If the talks fail, the store will shut by September 26.

It’s not clear whether the negotiations will apply to the Dale Road location.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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Never miss a story Over the near 50-year run, the longtime favorite regional grocery chain grew to three locations across California’s Central Valley.Shoppers chose from either one in Riverbank or two in Modesto.

The Riverbank location closed down in July 2024 and was sold to Cost Less Food Company.As the closures are in effect, shoppers can score up to 24% off storewide as the market is launching a “company-wide retirement party.” According to the statement, everything is fair game except items lik...