Reitan Convenience Norway will close approximately 70 Narvesen kiosks across shopping centers nationwide. The restructuring affects 70 franchise owners and around 400 employees working full-time and part-time positions. These staffing reductions represent about 150 full-time equivalent positions.
Company officials confirmed the closures will occur gradually through Third Quarter operations. The decision primarily targets Narvesen locations operating within shopping malls and retail centers. Bergen alone contains more than ten affected Narvesen outlets among the nationwide closures.
Annamaria Carnemark, managing director of Reitan Convenience Norway, described the move as challenging but necessary. She stated in a press release that franchise owners remain central to their business operations. The company bears responsibility for ensuring proper conditions for profitable operations at locations meeting future consumer demands.
Reitan Convenience Norway operates three major convenience store chains: Narvesen, 7-Eleven, and Northland. The consolidation reflects broader retail trends affecting Norwegian shopping centers and consumer behavior patterns. Shopping mall foot traffic has declined steadily as consumer preferences shift toward neighborhood convenience and online shopping alternatives.
Norwegian retail analysts note this restructuring follows similar moves by other chains adapting to changing market conditions. The convenience sector faces particular pressure from grocery store expansion into traditional kiosk product categories. Many Norwegian supermarkets now offer tobacco, newspapers, and quick meal options that previously drove kiosk profitability.
This consolidation raises questions about the future of traditional Norwegian kiosk culture. For decades, Narvesen locations served as neighborhood gathering spots and quick-stop destinations. The gradual disappearance of these familiar retail fixtures marks another shift in Norway's evolving commercial landscape.
The closures will create noticeable gaps in shopping center retail mixes across multiple regions. Vestland county residents await specific location details as the company finalizes its implementation timeline. Company representatives indicate they will communicate directly with affected franchise owners and employees throughout the transition process.
Norwegian labor unions will likely monitor the situation closely given the substantial employment impact. The 400 affected workers represent a significant workforce reduction within Norway's retail sector. Union representatives typically engage in restructuring processes to ensure proper severance packages and relocation assistance for displaced employees.
This corporate decision reflects the difficult balancing act facing traditional retail operators. Companies must maintain profitability while adapting to rapidly changing consumer preferences and shopping behaviors. The gradual phase-out approach suggests Reitan Convenience seeks to minimize disruption while repositioning its remaining locations for long-term viability.