JCPenney has encountered ongoing financial difficulties in recent years, notably filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2020.
The American retail giant JCPenney is set to permanently shut down seven of its stores across the U.S. by May 25, 2025. As reported by NBC News, these closures, initially announced in February, follow the shutdown of over 200 locations that occurred after the company sought Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May 2020. JCPenney cited reasons such as expiring leases and evolving market dynamics for the latest closures, reflecting the broader challenges faced by traditional retailers amid a shifting economic landscape.
"Closing any store is a tough decision," the company noted in a prior statement. "We appreciate the hard work of our associates and the continued support from customers at our San Bruno store. We remain committed to providing value to American families and invite them to continue shopping with us at nearby stores or online at JCPenney.com."
The stores scheduled to close include:
- Tanforan, San Bruno, California
- Northfield, Denver, Colorado
- Pine Ridge Mall, Idaho
- West Ridge Mall, Kansas
- Fox Run, New Hampshire
- Asheville Mall
- Charleston Town Centre
Earlier in the year, JCPenney announced plans to exit its Westfield Annapolis Mall location in Maryland. However, on May 19, a company representative confirmed that a lease extension had been secured, allowing the store to operate until at least August 31.
The company's financial woes, including its 2020 bankruptcy filing, have continued to shape its operations. In January, JCPenney became part of Catalyst Brands—a new entity formed through its merger with SPARC Group, which also oversees retail names like Aeropostale, Brooks Brothers, and Lucky Brand.