JCPenney to Shutter 7 Stores by Memorial Day Amid Wave of U.S. Retail Closures
May 20, 2025 — In a significant move reflecting the shifting dynamics of the American retail sector, JCPenney has announced the closure of seven stores across the United States by May 25, 2025. This decision is part of the company’s strategic effort to streamline operations and adapt to evolving consumer habits as brick-and-mortar retail continues to face mounting challenges.
The affected locations include JCPenney stores in San Bruno, California; Denver, Colorado; Pocatello, Idaho; Topeka, Kansas; Newington, New Hampshire; Asheville, North Carolina; and Charleston, West Virginia. Clearance sales with discounts of up to 90% are underway in these stores, giving customers a final opportunity to shop in-person before the doors permanently close.
JCPenney cited a combination of expiring leases, declining foot traffic, and long-term restructuring goals as key reasons for the closures. While the company has already shut down more than 200 stores since its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in 2020, executives maintain that these latest closures are isolated and not part of a widespread downsizing. One planned closure at the Westfield Annapolis Mall in Maryland has been delayed after a lease extension, offering a temporary reprieve to local shoppers.
The closures are happening as the broader retail industry grapples with massive transformation. Experts estimate that more than 15,000 retail stores in the U.S. will close their doors in 2025 alone—more than double the number from 2024. This retail contraction has impacted major chains beyond JCPenney, including JoAnn Fabrics, Macy’s, Family Dollar, and Walgreens, which are all shuttering hundreds of locations due to financial pressures, declining sales, and the growing dominance of e-commerce.
Retail analysts say traditional department stores face a particularly steep uphill battle. As more shoppers opt for online platforms and digital-first brands, established chains are being forced to rethink their business models. In JCPenney’s case, the company hopes to rebound through a new partnership with SPARC Group under the Catalyst Brands umbrella, focusing on revitalizing its core business with a blend of physical presence and digital innovation.
Despite these headwinds, JCPenney continues to serve customers through its remaining stores and online platform, jcpenney.com. Company representatives emphasize that JCPenney remains committed to its customer base and is working to deliver value and convenience in new ways.
JCPenney Store Closures – May 2025
The following locations are set to close:
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The Shops at Tanforan – San Bruno, California
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The Shops at Northfield – Denver, Colorado
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Pine Ridge Mall – Pocatello, Idaho
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West Ridge Mall – Topeka, Kansas
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Fox Run Mall – Newington, New Hampshire
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Asheville Mall – Asheville, North Carolina
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Charleston Town Center – Charleston, West Virginia
As Memorial Day approaches, the closures are a stark reminder of the changing face of American retail. The next few years may determine which legacy brands survive—and which will fade into history—as the industry continues to evolve rapidly.
