Retailers Shopko, Pamida Complete Merger

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Shopko plans to close six Pamida stores and consolidate the headquarters of the two companies after completing its acquisition of the competing retailer.

Shopko said Thursday the new chain has nearly 350 stores in 22 states, and will be based in its home of Green Bay, Wis. Deal terms weren't disclosed.

Spokeswoman Tara Powers says the company decided not to invest in 6 Pamida stores with disappointing sales. The stores that will close are in Albia, Corydon and Red Oak, Iowa; Sparta and Ontonagon, Mich.; and Mt. Vernon, Mo.

About $80 million will be invested in converting the other Pamida stores by the end of 2012.

Powers says 88 of Pamida's 200 headquarters employees in Omaha were offered new jobs in Green Bay. Sixty-five accepted and will move.

There are two Shopko stores in St. Cloud.