The company cited “performance and growth potential” in their decision to close six stores nationwide, including the Englewood store, located at 832 W 63rd St. and DePaul store, located at 959 W. Fullerton Ave.

In Sept. 2016, former Mayor Emanuel touted the Englewood opening as a way his administration was combatting food deserts on the South and West sides. The grocery store was taxpayer-subsidized.

Whole Foods released the following statement.

“As we continue to position Whole Foods Market for long-term success, we regularly evaluate the performance and growth potential of each of our stores, and we have made the difficult decision to close six stores. We are supporting impacted Team Members through this transition and expect that all interested, eligible Team Members will find positions at our other locations.”

Mayor Lightfoot said she is disappointed and released the following statement.

“Amazon’s decision to close stores in Englewood and Lincoln Park as part of a nationwide closure of stores is obviously disappointing. My immediate worry is for the workers in both locations. Amazon must now take clear steps to protect those workers as they transition to new opportunities. Having been in both of those stores many times over the years, I saw first-hand how those workers gave their heart and soul to make the stores a success. Together with both communities and local elected leaders, my administration will work to repurpose these locations in a way that continues to serve the community and support the surrounding businesses. We as a city will continue to work hard to close food deserts that meet community needs with community at the table.”