CORTLAND, NY (607NewsNow) – A Western New York-based home improvement chain is closing two local stores.

On July 8, a spokesperson for VALU Home Centers confirmed to 607NewsNow that both the Cortland and Owego locations will soon shut down. The company made the decision “as part of a strategic initiative to adapt to changing market dynamics.”

Officials say higher inflation, rising operational and labor costs, and increased competition have been challenging.

“Closing these stores, which have been integral to our history and the communities we serve, was an incredibly difficult decision,” said President and CEO Michael Ervolina. “However, this step is necessary to ensure the company remains strong and capable of investing in better-performing stores, new technology, improving efficiencies, and growing our online business. We remain a strong family-owned and operated company, headquartered in Buffalo, NY, that carries zero debt, and are committed to operating high-performing convenient neighborhood stores focused on delivering the quality and service our customers expect.”

Employees at both locations have been given the option to transfer to one of Valu’s remaining 26 stores.

“We have an amazing team at each of these locations, and we want to ensure they have the opportunity to continue as part of the VALU family,” added Ervolina.

Liquidation sales begin tomorrow in Cortland and Owego. Both shops will close early tonight in preparation.