The Fresh Market, Inc. announced Tuesday it is closing 13 store locations, including its Cedar Rapids location.

According to a news release from the specialty grocer, the chain will also close all its store locations in Texas, Iowa, Missouri, and Kansas, as well as a cafe located in a Kansas museum.

The Fresh Market says the decision to close these locations was made with the consideration of the growth strategy and long-term financial performance of the company.

The Fresh Market President and CEO Rick Anicetti says the decision to close the stores is a, "difficult but necessary step with the end goal of producing a strong, more agile company."

The Fresh Market says all affected eligible employees have been offered the option to apply for a position at another store location and will receive a separation package.

"We will have Human Resources and Store Operations team members in each of these stores throughout the week to assist employees with any transition needs they may have," said Anicetti.

There are two Fresh Market stores in Iowa. One located on Collins road in Cedar Rapids and the other in West Des Moines.

The company operates 175 stores in 23 states across the country.