Aldi's grocery store is just one retailer that will replace Kohl's in Fairfield, officials say.

The Kohl's on Tunxis Hill Cutoff in Fairfield has been a staple in town for two decades, and one of the latest stores in town to close amid the pandemic.

"We're happy to announce the location will be filled by several new retailers," Economic Development Director Mark Barnhart says.

Barnhart says a Floor & Decor store and an Aldi grocery store are slated to open in place of Kohl's.

He says the application for the retailers was just approved at the last Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.

The closure of Kohl's comes as many long-standing businesses in Fairfield are shutting their doors.

Victoria's Secret closed its doors in the heart of downtown Fairfield.

Fairfield Cinemas boarded up recently, calling it quits too.

No deals for either spots have been inked yet, but Barnhart says there's been a lot of interest.

"Things are moving in a positive direction, so we're excited about that."

Joe's American Bar & Grill, a long-standing Fairfield restaurant on the Post Road, closed before the pandemic.

The property finally has a new owner, following a $4 million sale.

Aldi will face some competition in town though with a Stop & Shop right across the street, a second Stop & Shop down the road, and a Shop Rite, Trader Joes and Whole Foods.

"Certainly, from a consumer standpoint to have a lot of different options for where you spend your local dollars makes a lot of sense. Helps keep prices in check. Certainly it helps retailers bring their A game to the whole thing. We actually think competition is a wonderful thing."

The economic development director anticipates the two stores will open sometime next year.