Which American supermarket chain filed for bankruptcy in 2010 after operating for more than 150 years?

The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, commonly called A&P, filed for bankruptcy protection in December 2010 after more than 150 years in business.

Founded in 1859, A&P became one of the most recognizable supermarket operators in the United States. Its stores included the A&P, Waldbaum’s, Pathmark, and Food Emporium brands in different periods.

The company faced intense competition from larger supermarkets, warehouse clubs, and discount retailers. It also carried substantial debt and struggled to modernize its store network as shopping habits and grocery formats changed.

A&P’s 2010 filing was followed by restructuring and store sales, but the company later filed again in 2015 and announced the closure of its remaining stores. Its long history makes the bankruptcy an example of how even a historic retail name can lose ground in a changing market.