Klamath Falls, Ore. – About 130 people are losing their jobs as two Haggen stores in Klamath Falls prepare to close.
Emily Hart will be heading in to her last day at Haggen on Friday.
She began working at the location as a courtesy clerk when it was a Safeway 16 years ago.
But now, Haggen is closing their two Klamath Falls stores.
“I was very surprised.” Notes Hart. “And very shocked as well.”
The shutdown of Haggen means the loss of the only pharmacy in downtown Klamath Falls.
The other Haggen, on South Sixth Street, was also home to the only Starbucks in Klamath County.
Haggen took over the two Safeway stores last spring.
“They rose the prices, they gave the employees discounts.” Recalls Hart. “But they didn’t give any discounts to the customers.”
Klamath Falls City Manager Nathan Cherpeski says the city is working with a retail recruiter to find new owners for both stores…
“We are making efforts, but so far we don’t have any firm leads of commitments.”
Emily Hart hopes the city is successful.
And for now, Hart is keeping her options open – and is considering going back to school…
“When I was younger, I was going to be a math professor like my father – and the other job would be a secretary, because I’m really good at it.”
Hart adds that she feels sorry for the customers and friends she’s met over the years…
“You are part of the business.”
The two stores in Klamath Falls are part of 27 Haggen grocery stores in 4 states targeted for closure.
Haggen says additional stores may be sold or closed in the future.
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