Foxtrot and Dom's Kitchen & Market suddenly ceased all operations Tuesday and closed dozens of locations around Chicago. The closure comes just months after a major merger between two high-end convenience supermarkets.
The mass closures affect 33 Foxtrot stores and two Dom's stores across Chicago, Austin, Dallas and Washington, D.C., according to a joint statement from Dom's and Foxtrot.
Foxtrot previously operated 16 stores in Chicago, with locations in Old Town, Lincoln Park, River North, Fulton Market and Wicker Park. Dom's operates two stores in Chicago, one in Lincoln Park and one in River North.
The decision came as a shock to customers who were handed flyers in stores this morning stating that Foxtrot and Dom's were permanently closing. Employees were equally shocked as they were not informed of this decision in advance. According to Block Club Chicago, management at Dom's Lincoln Park declined to elaborate on the reason for the closure.
Inside the former Southport Corridor Foxtrot in Lakeview, intact furniture and products on shelves are on display. | Elena Smentovsky
Customers and former employees of the chain took to social media to express their frustration at the sudden closure. Employees reportedly received notice of the closure by Tuesday.
“Foxtrot notified employees this morning, including managers at each store,” former Foxtrot employee Ashley Ver Beek wrote on Instagram. “Even though people were coming in to open at 6 a.m., the doors were locked and the shift ended at 10 a.m.”
Foxtrot debuted in Chicago in 2016, and Dom's opened in 2021, according to Eater. Both chains have become popular with locals for their gourmet meals, prepared meals, convenient snacks, coffee bars, and comfortable lounge areas. The two companies merged in November 2023.
Outfox Hospitality, the parent company of the two grocery chains, has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, according to Eater.
Foxtrot and Dom apologized for the sudden decision in a joint statement. “We have explored numerous avenues to continue our operations, but despite our good faith and exhaustive efforts, we have not found a viable option.”
“This decision was not made lightly and we understand the impact it will have on you, our loyal customers, and our dedicated team members,” the joint statement said. ing. “We know this news is shocking and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.”
