Killeen's Kmart is one of dozens of stores being closed across the nation in the first quarter of 2017.

Kmart and Sears announced a plethora of closings Wednesday. You can see the full list here.

The partnering companies said the following in a media release:

The decision to close stores is a difficult but necessary step as we take actions to strengthen the Company’s operations and fund its transformation. Many of these stores have struggled with their financial performance for years and we have kept them open to maintain local jobs and in the hopes that they would turn around. But in order to meet our objective of returning to profitability, we have to make tough decisions and will continue to do so, which will give our better performing stores a chance at success. Eligible associates impacted by these store closures will receive severance and will have the opportunity to apply for open positions at area Kmart or Sears stores.

 

The release went on to say that liquidation sales were expected to begin as early as Friday, January 6.

Other Texas closures included two stores in Odessa and one in Lufkin. Odessa's Sears location will shut down as well.

 

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