U.S. to Witness Closure of Nearly 300 Stores by 2026

A significant wave of store closures is anticipated to hit the United States retail landscape as 2026 approaches. Notable chains, including Macy's and Kroger, are on the list of those closing.

Retail giants are attributing these closures to a strategic shift towards more efficient operations. Among the latest to join this trend is Newell Brands, the owner of Yankee Candle.

Storm of Store Closures Ahead

This marks the continuation of a trend observed in 2024 and 2025, as major retailers like Macy's and Kroger extend their store closure plans through 2026. These actions are part of a broader strategic shift to focus on digital sales channels.

Business Insider reported around 4,100 closures in 2025, with Coresight Research forecasting the shutdown of 15,000 retail locations within the same year. For 2026, nearly 270 planned closures have been pinpointed.

Notable Retailers and Their Closure Plans

Carter's: 100 Stores

Carter's, a leading retailer for children's and baby wear in North America, announced plans in October to close 150 locations over the next three years, with around 100 slated to shutter by the end of 2026.

Macy's: 80 Stores

In early 2025, Macy's unveiled intentions to close 150 stores by the end of 2026, focusing on its top-performing outlets and online sales. This plan will leave around 350 Macy's locations operational following the closures.

Kroger: 60 Stores

Kroger announced in mid-2025 the plan to shut down 60 unprofitable stores nationwide over an 18-month timeframe, having commenced this process by September.

The company stated in its 2025 report that it managed 2,731 grocery outlets across 35 states and the District of Columbia.

Yankee Candle: 20 Stores

In late 2025, Newell Brands disclosed plans to close 20 Yankee Candle outlets in North America starting January 2026, part of a broader initiative also involving a workforce reduction of over 900 employees.

CEO Chris Peterson highlighted the move as a step towards increased efficiency and strategic refinement to enhance company performance.

Saks Off 5th: 9 Stores

The upscale outlet, renowned for offering discounted designer items, shared plans with Business Insider to shutter stores in nine locations by early 2026, aiming for a more successful strategic future.

REI: 3 Stores

Outdoor retailer REI confirmed closures will include three stores, initiating with New Jersey early in the year, followed by sites in SoHo, NYC, and Boston later in 2026. Adjustments aim to align with shifting market and customer dynamics.