Source:  Tom Johnston, MEATINGPLACE.COM, 2/16/11

The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co. (A&P) said Tuesday it has filed a motion in court for approvel to close 32 supermarkets in six states amid the company's restructuring process.

The Montvale, N.J.-based retail chain expects to shutter those stores by the company’s fiscal first quarter. A&P filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy late last year.

“While this was a very difficult decision that will unfortunately impact some of our customers, partners, communities and employees, these actions are absolutely necessary as we work to strengthen A&P's operating foundation and improve our performance,” A&P President and CEO Sam Martin said in a news release. “We will help our affected colleagues pursue other positions across the company should open positions be available."

“Even as we reduce our store base and drive efficiencies across our company, we continue to take other important steps to enhance our customers' overall shopping experience, including upgrading our private label brands,” Martin added.

One of the nation’s oldest supermarket chains, A&P operates 395 stores in eight states and District of Columbia under the following names: A&P, Waldbaum's, Pathmark, Best Cellars, The Food Emporium, Super Fresh and Food Basics.

For more stories, go to www.meatingplace.com.