Hudson, Ohio – In a shocking development for the retail world, Joann Fabrics stores closing has become a harsh reality for crafters and hobbyists across the United States. The company, known for its vast selection of fabrics, crafts, and sewing supplies, has announced that it will shut down 500 stores as part of its ongoing bankruptcy process. This marks a significant shift for the retailer, which has long been a staple for DIY enthusiasts and professional designers alike.
Why Are Joann Fabrics Stores Closing?
The announcement of Joann stores closing comes as the company navigates its second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in less than a year. Joann Fabrics initially filed for bankruptcy in March 2024, securing $132 million in new financing to help stabilize operations. The company briefly emerged from bankruptcy and went private, hoping to regain its financial footing. However, persistent inventory shortages, declining foot traffic, and changing consumer spending habits forced Joann to reassess its retail strategy.
Joann’s interim CEO, Michael Prendergast, explained the company’s struggles:
"Since becoming a private company in April, our management team has worked tirelessly to drive value and manage costs. However, the last several years have presented significant and lasting challenges in the retail environment. Coupled with our current financial position and constrained inventory levels, we were left with no choice but to take this step."
With inflation and economic uncertainty affecting consumer spending, many shoppers have reduced discretionary purchases. The shift toward e-commerce has further impacted brick-and-mortar retailers like Joann, making it difficult to sustain large retail footprints.
Which Joann Stores Are Closing?
Joann Fabrics closing stores will impact locations across all 50 states, though some areas will be hit harder than others. According to court filings, states experiencing the most closures include:
California
Florida
Indiana
Michigan
New York
Pennsylvania
Washington
The company has yet to release a full list of Joann’s closing stores, but customers can expect announcements in the coming weeks. Previously, some Joann Fabrics stores closed in Iowa, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, and Massachusetts as part of routine evaluations before the second bankruptcy filing.
For a full list of affected locations, customers can check Joann’s official website or refer to court documents filed in the bankruptcy case.
Impact on Employees and Customers
The decision to close Joann stores has significant repercussions for employees, customers, and communities. Joann currently operates approximately 800 locations nationwide, meaning these closures will affect more than half of its retail footprint.
For Employees:
The closures will lead to thousands of job losses across the country. The company has not disclosed exact figures but has assured employees that severance packages and transition support will be available where possible.
For Customers:
Shoppers who rely on Joann for their crafting, sewing, and home décor needs will now have fewer locations to visit. While some stores will remain operational, customers may have to switch to Joann’s online store or alternative retailers such as Hobby Lobby, Michaels, and Walmart for their fabric and craft supplies.
Many longtime Joann shoppers have expressed disappointment over the closures, with some taking to social media to share their concerns.
"I've been going to Joann for years—it’s heartbreaking to see so many stores closing. Where will we go for quality fabrics now?" — @CraftingQueen88 on Twitter
Retail Industry Challenges and the Future of Joann Fabrics
Joann is not the only retailer facing difficulties. The broader retail landscape is undergoing massive transformations, with many traditional stores struggling to stay afloat.
Key Trends Affecting Retailers:
Rise of E-Commerce – More customers are turning to online marketplaces like Amazon, Etsy, and Fabric.com for their crafting needs.
Inflation and Economic Uncertainty – Consumers are cutting back on discretionary spending, impacting retailers specializing in non-essential goods.
Store Closures Across the Industry – More than 15,000 stores are expected to shut down in 2025, more than double last year’s closures, according to Coresight Research.
Other major retailers, including Macy’s and Kohl’s, are also closing stores, signaling broader challenges in the industry.
Despite these challenges, Joann has confirmed that 300 stores will remain open, and the company is actively seeking a buyer to revitalize and restructure the business.
What’s Next for Joann Customers?
With Joann’s closing stores, many customers are left wondering about the future of their favorite crafting destination. Here’s what you need to know:
Final Sales & Liquidation Events: Stores slated for closure will likely hold clearance sales in the coming weeks. Customers should keep an eye out for discounts on fabric, sewing kits, and craft supplies.
Online Shopping Options: Joann’s website will continue to operate, offering customers the ability to shop from home.
Gift Cards & Returns: Customers with Joann gift cards should use them before affected locations close. It’s unclear how returns will be processed once stores shut down.
For the latest updates on Joann Fabrics closing announcements, customers can visit the company’s website or follow breaking news today for more details.
Final Thoughts
The Joann Fabrics stores closing news is a significant blow to the crafting community, marking the end of an era for many local stores. As the company works through its bankruptcy restructuring, shoppers are encouraged to stay informed about which Joann stores are closing and take advantage of any clearance sales.
With the retail industry evolving, only time will tell whether Joann can recover or if this is the beginning of the end for one of America’s most iconic craft retailers.
For more updates on this story and other breaking news today, stay tuned to our coverage.
Original Source: Fast Company
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