Two grocery stores in Palisades destroyed by California wildfire, other stores closed by evacuation order

At least two grocery stores have been destroyed by wildfires in Pacific Palisades, Calif., that have led to the evacuation of tens of thousands of people and destroyed thousands of buildings in the most devastating wildfires ever to hit Los Angeles County. 

Reports are still surfacing about the damage caused by the fires that have so far resulted in the deaths of five people, but Supermarket News has confirmed that a Gelson’s supermarket, located at 15424 Sunset Blvd., and a Ralphs Fresh Fare supermarket, located at 15120 Sunset Blvd., have been destroyed. 

Kroger, which owns the Ralphs banner, said in an email to SN that no injuries were associated with the loss of the store.

“Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by the devastating fires in California, and we appreciate the amazing work being done by first responders in the region. We can confirm our Ralphs store in the Palisades was lost to the fire, and fortunately, all associates were safely evacuated from the location,” the company said in the email. “With safety as top priority, we will continue to work with law enforcement and emergency responders to monitor affected areas. We look forward to coordinating with the American Red Cross and elected officials to make sure those displaced from their homes have access to fresh food and water.”

Meanwhile, Gelson’s released a statement on its website noting that its store in Palisades was destroyed by the fire, and that stores in the city of La Cañada Flintridge, northeast of Palisades, and Calabasas, located northwest of Los Angeles, have been evacuated. 

“With a heavy heart, we share that our Palisades store has been completely lost to the fires. This store was more than just a place to shop—it was a cornerstone of the community, and we grieve this loss alongside the team members, customers, and neighbors who called it their own,” Gelson’s President and CEO Ryan Adams said in the statement.

Adams said Gelson’s is “exploring every avenue to assist in recovery efforts” and that the grocery chain will “stand with our neighbors as we work together to rebuild what has been lost.”

“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by these tragedies. We are committed to supporting our employees during this challenging time, ensuring they have access to resources and aid as they navigate their own hardships,” Adams said. 

A Vons supermarket in Palisades, located at 17380 Sunset Blvd., is still under evacuation and closed, but the store is still intact, said Courtney Carranza, director of communications and public affairs for the Albertsons-owned chain. 

“All associates are safe and accounted for,” she said. 

The status of an Erewhon supermarket a few blocks away from both the lost Ralphs and Gelson’s locations is still unknown. A spokesperson could not immediately be reached for comment.