GREEN BAY, WI (AP) – Wisconsin-based retail chain Shopko is closing stores in five North Dakota communities.

The company has filed for bankruptcy protection, citing excessive debt and ongoing competitive pressure. It says it will close 38 more stores nationwide, after announcing plans to close about 40 of its more than 300 stores across the country in December.

In North Dakota, Shopko will close stores in Rolla, Oakes Lisbon, Mayville and Beulah. All will be shut down by mid-April.