JCPenney Announces Store Closures Across Eight States

Is JCPenney Still in Business? Here’s What You Need to Know

Breaking News Today: JCPenney has confirmed the closure of multiple stores across eight states in the U.S. by mid-2025. The company reassured customers that these closures are not part of a mass shutdown but rather a strategic decision based on expiring lease agreements and market conditions.

A spokesperson for JCPenney stated:

“While we do not have plans to significantly reduce our store count, we expect a handful of JCPenney stores to close by mid-year. The decision to close a store is never an easy one, but isolated closures do happen from time to time due to expiring lease agreements, market changes, or other factors.”

The closures come in the wake of JCPenney’s recent merger with SPARC Group, forming Catalyst Brands, a retail conglomerate that also includes Aéropostale, Brooks Brothers, Eddie Bauer, Lucky Brand, and Nautica. However, the company maintains that the store shutdowns are not related to the merger.

List of JCPenney Stores Closing in 2025

According to SB360 Capital Partners, the following JCPenney locations will be shutting down:

• San Bruno, California – The Shops at Tanforan

• Denver, Colorado – The Shops at Northfield

• Pocatello, Idaho – Pine Ridge Mall

• Topeka, Kansas – West Ridge Mall

• Annapolis, Maryland – Annapolis Mall

• Asheville, North Carolina – Asheville Mall

• Newington, New Hampshire – Mall at Fox Run

• Charleston, West Virginia – Charleston Town Center

Why Is JCPenney Closing Stores?

Retail analysts suggest that JCPenney’s store closures are part of an ongoing effort to streamline operations and focus on profitable locations. Several factors have contributed to this decision:

1. Changing Consumer Habits

• The rise of e-commerce has shifted shopping patterns, leading to decreased foot traffic in traditional department stores.

• More consumers prefer online shopping, directly impacting in-store sales.

2. Real Estate and Lease Expirations

• Many closures align with the expiration of store leases, suggesting that JCPenney is strategically downsizing.

3. Post-Pandemic Retail Landscape

• JCPenney was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing the company to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2020.

• The brand has since worked on restructuring, reducing its debt, and refocusing on sustainable growth.

JCPenney’s Merger with SPARC Group & Future Plans

In January 2025, JCPenney officially merged with SPARC Group, which also owns several well-known fashion brands. Together, they formed Catalyst Brands, led by former JCPenney CEO Marc Rosen.

“This business brings together the rich heritage of six unique brands with modern energy and a new vision for success,” Rosen stated.

Despite the closures, JCPenney’s online presence and remaining physical stores will continue operations as the company adapts to new consumer trends.

Retail Industry Struggles: A Broader Trend?

JCPenney is not the only retailer closing stores. Other major chains have also announced similar moves:

• Big Lots: Closing over 300 stores after a 10% drop in sales ($205 million loss).

• Party City: Shut down all U.S. stores in late 2024 after 40 years in business.

• Coresight Research: Reports suggest up to 15,000 store closures expected across the U.S. in 2025.

The retail landscape is evolving rapidly, and companies must adapt to survive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

Is JCPenney Still in Business?

Yes, JCPenney remains in business, and the company reassures customers that it has no plans for widespread closures. Despite the shutdown of certain locations, JCPenney is focusing on strengthening its core operations and enhancing its digital footprint.

Shoppers can still visit JCPenney at its remaining stores and shop online at JCPenney.com.

Conclusion: What’s Next for JCPenney?

As JCPenney navigates these changes, customers should expect a continued presence in retail—albeit with fewer physical locations.

Key Takeaways:

✔ Eight JCPenney stores will close in 2025 across multiple states.

✔ Closures are unrelated to the SPARC merger and are based on lease expirations and market conditions.

✔ JCPenney remains in business and continues to serve customers online and in other locations.

✔ The retail industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with more store closures expected in 2025.

As the situation develops, stay updated with AGENCYX for the latest breaking news on retail trends, store closures, and business transformations.

Source: Amber Raiken, The Independent, 13 February 2025.

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