Supermarket chain Kroger announced it will close 30 stores nationwide this year and a total of 60 over the next 18 months during its recent first quarter earnings call.

“We see this as an opportunity to move these closed store sales to other stores, and we think that should improve profitability,” Kroger’s interim Chairman and CEO Ronald Sargent said during the call, according to the Associated Press. At the same time, Sargent also said Kroger would open at least 30 stores this year.

The nation’s largest supermarket chain, Kroger operates 2,731 stores across 35 states and the District of Columbia and includes multiple brand names, including Smith’s, Ralphs, King Soopers and Fred Meyer.

According to USA Today’s running list of closures, no Ohio stores are being targeted for closure. The closest store on the list is in Elkhart, Indiana.

The move  prompted some customers to take action over concerns the store closings would increase food deserts. Residents in and near Abingdon, Va. where one store is slated to close, started a petition on Change.org.

“The prospect of Krogers closing down is not just an inconvenience; it’s a significant blow to the community,” the petition reads in part. “Without Krogers, many will have to travel further or pay more for the same products, placing an unnecessary strain on our time and finances.”

Kroger’s announcement comes after it had delayed any store closings as it attempted to finalize a two-year effort to merge with rival Albertsons. That deal effectively evaporated after judges blocked it over concerns of lack of competition. Once headed toward a merger, the two supermarket giants ended up suing each other.