A “handful” of JCPenney locations are on the brink of closure, as confirmed by a company spokesperson. This announcement adds to the growing number of stores that have been shut down by the retailer since it filed for bankruptcy in 2020. The spokesperson refrained from disclosing the exact number or specific locations set to close; however, they emphasized that the company does not intend to make a significant reduction in its overall store count.
In the wake of filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May 2020, JCPenney revealed plans to shutter over 200 stores nationwide. Subsequently, the chain was acquired by Simon Property Group and Brookfield Asset Management Inc. in December 2020.
In a recent development, JCPenney unveiled a strategic partnership with the fashion retailer Forever 21 to establish a new entity named Catalyst Brands. This merger also encompasses other well-known brands such as Brooks Brothers, Aéropostale, Lucky Brand, Nautica, and Eddie Bauer. The formation of Catalyst Brands is anticipated to result in the opening of 1,800 new store locations and the employment of 60,000 individuals. Notably, the JCPenney spokesperson clarified that the impending store closures are not linked to the Catalyst Brands merger.
Here’s an overview of the forthcoming closures:
Which JCPenney stores will be closing?
The exact “handful” of stores slated for closure this year has not been officially disclosed by JCPenney.
When are the store closures scheduled to take place?
As per a JCPenney spokesperson’s statement to USA TODAY, the closures are expected to be finalized by mid-2025.
Contributing to this report: Jonathan Limehouse and Kelly Tyko, from USA TODAY. Greta Cross is a trending reporter at USA TODAY. For more updates, follow her on X and Instagram @gretalcross. Have a story idea? Reach out to her via email at gcross@usatoday.com.
This article was originally published on USA TODAY: JCPenney closing ‘handful’ of stores in 2025: Here’s what we know.
