The century-old retailer is set to shutter additional locations by May 25, marking another blow to traditional shopping malls. As JCPenney battles changing consumer habits, many wonder if this iconic chain can survive the challenges still on the horizon.
For over a hundred years, JCPenney has served as a go-to destination for clothes, home décor, and memorable holiday gifts. Founded in 1902, it became a staple in malls across the United States. However, the past decade saw shifting shopper preferences and tough economic conditions, and the pandemic further accelerated the move to online retail.
How these JCPenney closures are reshaping traditional shopping habits across America
Seven stores are scheduled to close, impacting communities in California, Colorado, North Carolina, Idaho, Kansas, New Hampshire, and West Virginia. Here’s a quick look at the affected locations:
- The Shops at Tanforan, San Bruno, CA
- The Shops at Northfield, Denver, CO
- Pine Ridge Mall, Pocatello, ID
- West Ridge Mall, Topeka, KS
- Fox Run Mall, Newington, NH
- Asheville Mall, Asheville, NC
- Charleston Town Center, Charleston, WV
Each shuttered location means lost jobs and more empty storefronts in malls that are already facing declining foot traffic. Did you ever shop at one of these stores?
What these sudden store shutdowns mean for local communities and mall traffic
Keeping doors open in a post-pandemic world demands creative strategies. Rising rents, labor costs, and online competition are squeezing margins. As shoppers increasingly favor e-commerce, many retailers are finding it tough to justify large brick-and-mortar footprints. Here’s a table summarizing key factors affecting JCPenney’s decisions:
| Factor | Impact on JCPenney |
|---|---|
| Online competition | Reduced in-store sales and shrinking revenue |
| Rising labor costs | Higher operating expenses for each location |
| Changing preferences | Declining mall foot traffic and in-person buys |
Strategies JCPenney tried to remain relevant before announcing additional closures
Earlier this year, JCPenney partnered with Forever 21 to attract younger shoppers. The hope was to inject fresh style and boost foot traffic.
However, when Forever 21 began shutting its own physical stores in March, the plan fell flat. Some loyal customers still came in, but it wasn’t enough to offset ongoing losses.
Will the chain’s storied legacy be enough to carry it forward?
Despite surviving bankruptcy in 2020, JCPenney continues to shrink as it strives to adapt. Insiders suggest that more closures could follow if sales do not rebound. Nevertheless, this brand remains a piece of American retail history—one that many consumers hold dear.
Will the chain find a way to thrive in the digital age, or are we witnessing the last chapter of a once-iconic name?