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Nearly 300 Store Closures Set for 2026 as Retail Footprints Shrink

Executives describe the cuts as efficiency moves that favor fewer flagships over broad footprints.

Overview

  • Reporters have identified roughly 270 store closures slated through 2026 across the U.S. and Canada, extending the retrenchment tracked in 2024–25.
  • Macy’s plans to wind down about 150 locations through 2026 to concentrate on top-performing stores and digital sales, leaving roughly 350 stores after the plan.
  • Kroger is shutting 60 unprofitable supermarkets over an 18‑month window that began in 2025 as part of a profitability push.
  • Carter’s targets 150 closures over three years with about 100 expected by the end of 2026, while Newell Brands will close 20 Yankee Candle stores beginning in January 2026.
  • REI confirmed three closures starting in early 2026 with SoHo and Boston following later in the year, and Saks Off 5th plans selective early‑2026 exits in nine locations; recent bankruptcies like Party City, Joann, and Rite Aid underscore permanent attrition alongside planned reductions.