By November 2025, more than 3,700 U.S. retail store locations have either shuttered or been slated for closure—marking a steep increase from last year’s totals. The tally, compiled by Business Insider, spans 16 major retail chains and underscores a structural shift in brick‑and‑mortar retail.
Leading the list is Joann, the fabric and craft retailer, which is closing approximately 790 stores following its second Chapter 11 filing in under 12 months.
Other large‑scale closings include:
- Party City: ~700 stores.
- Starbucks: 627 stores, primarily in North America.
- Big Lots: Up to 480 store leases sold.
- Walgreens: 450 closures expected through 2025.
- Dollar Tree: 370 closures as it phases out parts of the Family Dollar brand.
Several chains are also reducing store counts via more targeted strategies: Macy’s plans 66 location closings in 2025 as part of a broader restructuring.
Analysts note that this wave of closures is tied not only to the continuing shift toward e‑commerce but also to operational cost pressures, inflated lease commitments and changing consumer behavior. UBS analysts cited in the article estimate up to 45,000 U.S. retail store closures could occur by 2029.
For stakeholders in retail ecosystems, the trend is a clear signal: scale, flexibility and digital integration are more critical than ever. Local suppliers, small‑format retailers and service providers should monitor how these closures might shift traffic patterns, vacancy rates and consumer spending in adjacent markets.
