JCPenney Announces Closure of Eight Stores Across the U.S.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — JCPenney is set to close eight locations across the United States by mid-2025 as part of a strategic reduction in its retail footprint.

The retailer, known for offering apparel and home goods, announced the closures in a statement confirming they are located primarily in shopping malls and town centers. Notable closures include stores at Westfield Annapolis Mall in Maryland, Pine Ridge Mall in Idaho, West Ridge Mall in Kansas, Fox Run Mall in New Hampshire, and Asheville Mall in North Carolina. Additional closures are planned for Charleston Town Center in West Virginia, Shops at Tanforan in California, and Shops at Northfield in Colorado.

While JCPenney did not comment directly on the news, a spokesperson told KTTV-TV and USA Today, “The decision to close a store is never an easy one.” The spokesperson also cited factors such as expiring lease agreements and market changes as contributing to these closures. “We are grateful to our dedicated associates and the loyal customers who have shopped at these locations,” they added, encouraging shoppers to visit other nearby stores or JCPenney’s website.

Founded in 1902 by James Cash Penney, the company has a long history in American retail. It was once considered one of the largest retailers of apparel and home goods. However, the brand faced financial difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May 2020. It emerged in December 2020 with new ownership, including Brookfield Asset Management and Simon Property Group.

In January 2025, JCPenney partnered with Sparc Group, which operates brands such as Aeropostale and Lucky Brand, to create a new entity called Catalyst Brands. Despite this new venture introducing plans for nearly 2,000 store openings and the hiring of over 65,000 employees, the recent closure announcement highlights ongoing challenges within the retail sector.

The closures come amid broader retail industry struggles. A Coresight Research report estimates that around 15,000 store closures could occur across the U.S. by 2025, nearly double from the previous year’s figures. This decline is reflective of changing consumer habits and increased competition from online retail and fast fashion brands.

As the company prepares for these closures, JCPenney remains committed to adapting to market demands and delivering value to its customers. The impact of recent closures on loyal clientele is yet to be determined, but the company emphasizes its focus on maintaining a strong connection with its remaining stores.