Superior Markets, Incorporated, operates three stores in a large metropolitan area. A segmented absorption costing income statement for the company for the last quarter is given below: Superior Markets, Incorporated Income Statement For the Quarter Ended September 30 Total Sales Cost of goods sold Gross margin Selling and administrative expenses: Selling expenses Administrative expenses Total expenses Net operating income (loss) North Store $ 3,480,000 1,922,352 $ 835,200 South Store $ 1,392,000 East Store $ 1,252,800 467,712 765,600 689,040 1,557,648 367,488 626,400 563,760 947,720 268,424 365,400 313,896 444,280 122,960 175,044 146,276 1,392,000 391,384 540,444 460,172 $ 165,648 $ (23,896) $ 85,956 $ 103,588 The North Store has consistently shown losses over the past two years. For this reason, management is giving consideration to closing the store. The company has asked you to make a recommendation as to whether the store should be closed or kept open. The following additional information is available for your use: