Part 5/13:
Stores like Fred Meyer and major national chains such as Walmart, Target, Nike, and REI have either closed or substantially scaled back their operations in Portland, citing theft and security risks. Kroger, Fred Meyer’s parent company, announced plans to shutter approximately 60 stores nationwide, with many closures happening in Portland. These closures are driven by the simple logistics of protecting employees and customers from theft and violence, which has become an insurmountable challenge.