Safeway to Close Hayward Store in 2026, Jobs to be Saved

URGENT UPDATE: Safeway has announced plans to close its supermarket located at 231 West Jackson St. in Hayward, effective February 2, 2026. However, the grocery chain is committed to preserving jobs by transferring affected employees to nearby locations.

According to a WARN letter submitted to the state’s Employment Development Department, approximately 76 associates will be impacted by this closure. Terra Powers, a vice president of human resources for Safeway’s Northern California division, stated, “We do not foresee any layoffs as a result of the closure.”

Safeway is working closely with representatives from the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 5 and Baker’s Union Local 125 to ensure that all affected workers are placed in new positions. “We intend to place all the associates into a position at another nearby location,” Powers emphasized in her letter dated November 5.

While the company aims for a seamless transition, the specifics of how many employees will be moved to a single location or how “nearby” is defined remain unclear. Employees have bumping rights, allowing those with seniority to displace less senior workers at other stores, raising questions about potential job losses elsewhere.

Safeway reassured that associates will continue to work at the store until its closure date, assisting in the transition process.

This decision highlights Safeway’s strategy to adapt to changing market conditions while minimizing the impact on its workforce. As details unfold, affected employees and the local community are urged to stay updated on further developments regarding job placements.

For those concerned, the company will keep lines of communication open as they navigate this significant transition. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.