JCPenney, the iconic American department store chain, has announced the closure of seven of its retail locations across the United States, with final operations concluding on May 25, 2025. This move is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to adapt to shifting consumer behaviors and the evolving retail landscape.
Locations Affected
The closures will impact stores in the following locations:
- San Bruno, California – The Shops at Tanforan
- Denver, Colorado – The Shops at Northfield
- Pocatello, Idaho – Pine Ridge Mall
- Topeka, Kansas – West Ridge Mall
- Newington, New Hampshire – Fox Run Mall
- Asheville, North Carolina – Asheville Mall
- Charleston, West Virginia – Charleston Town Center
These closures are attributed to a combination of factors, including expiring lease agreements, declining foot traffic, and broader shifts in consumer shopping habits, particularly the increasing preference for online retail. JCPenney has emphasized that these decisions are part of regular business operations and are not directly tied to the company’s previous financial challenges.
Liquidation Sales and Customer Impact
In preparation for the closures, the affected stores have been holding liquidation sales, offering discounts of up to 90% on various merchandise categories, including apparel, home goods, and seasonal items. These sales have attracted significant customer interest, with many shoppers seeking to take advantage of the reduced prices before the stores shut their doors.
Customers in the impacted areas are encouraged to visit the closing locations before May 25 to benefit from the clearance sales. Additionally, JCPenney has assured its customers that they can continue to shop at the company’s remaining stores nationwide or through its online platform, JCPenney.com.
Broader Retail Industry Context
The decision to close these seven stores reflects broader challenges facing the traditional retail sector. The rise of e-commerce, changing consumer preferences, and the decline of mall-based shopping have all contributed to a difficult operating environment for brick-and-mortar retailers.
JCPenney’s closures are part of a larger trend of store reductions across the industry. Retail analysts predict that up to 45,000 brick-and-mortar stores may shut down across the U.S. in the next five years, affecting sectors such as clothing, electronics, and home furnishings. Despite these challenges, some major retailers like Walmart, Costco, Home Depot, and Target are expected to fare better due to their diversified offerings and strong online presence.
Company Background and Future Outlook
Founded in 1902, JCPenney has been a staple in American retail for over a century. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic but emerged later that year under new ownership. In January 2025, JCPenney merged with SPARC Group to form Catalyst Brands, aiming to revitalize its operations and adapt to the modern retail environment.
Despite the current closures, JCPenney continues to operate approximately 650 stores nationwide and maintains a robust online shopping platform. The company remains committed to serving its customers and adapting to the evolving retail landscape.