The Andersons announced Sunday that it was closing its two general stores in Columbus and two others in the Toledo area.

The business has a loyal following and is known for its extensive wine and beer selection, deli,grocery and prepared foods. It has a country-store feel selling items ranging from hardware and clothing to Christmas trees and bedding.

'The decision to close The Andersons stores was not easy for anyone involved,' said CEO Pat Bowe on the company's website. "Choosing to cease a business that has spanned 65 years and employs about 1,050 people is tremendously difficult."

The closing will eliminate about 400 positions in Columbus' two stores, on Alshire Road on the Far East Side and on Bent Tree Boulevard on the Northwest Side. In Toledo, another 650 positions will be lost. The company said about 75 percent are part-time positions. The company will provide employees with severance packages and assistance in finding new jobs.

The company, which also has grain, ethanol, plant nutrient and rail holdings, said its retail group has had pre-tax losses of more than $20 million in the past eight years and had closed three other stores.

Last year, The Andersons rejected two unsolicited takeover proposals from a New York holding company, which had suggested divesting the retail stores from the rest of the business.

dnarciso@dispatch.com

@DeanNarciso