Giant Eagle joins list of grocery stores to close on Thanksgiving

Anyone in the Pittsburgh region panicked over a forgotten cranberry sauce or scorched turkey will have to get creative this Thanksgiving, as a number of local grocery stores plan to remain closed Nov. 25.

Now add Giant Eagle to that list, which already includes Trader Joe’s and Walmart. In Greensburg, Charley Family Shop ’n Save stores also will be closed, store manager John Stangroom confirmed.

“Our team members have been working tirelessly to provide a safe shopping environment for our guests while ensuring access to essential food, fuel and medicines,” said Janah Jablonowski, a spokeswoman for Giant Eagle. “Our decision to close on Thanksgiving will allow all of our team members and truck drivers well-deserved time to rest, recharge and enjoy the holiday with their families.”

The O’Hara-based company encourages shoppers to plan for fuel and groceries in advance. Supermarket and GetGo locations will reopen Nov. 26.

According to Walmart, this is the second year its stores have closed on Thanksgiving.

“Closing our stores on Thanksgiving Day is one way we’re saying ‘thank you’ to our teams for their dedication and hard work this year,” said Dacona Smith, executive vice president and chief operating officer. “We hope everyone will take the opportunity to be with their loved ones during what’s always a special time.”