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More than 1,500 stores are set to close across the US in 2026. Here's ...
Allbirds said it would close its stores in 2026. Retailers and restaurants are gearing up for another wave of store closures. It’s shaping up to be the continuation of a retail pullback that B-17 tracked in 2024 and 2025. Major chains, from department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue to restaurant chains Pizza Hut and Wendy’s, have already announced multiyear closure plans that extend into 2026, as have some niche stores. Some companies, such as Macy’s, are closing their physical stores to invest more resources into their online businesses. In 2025, B-17 tracked around 4,100 closures as of late December. Retail data and consultant firm Coresight Research predicted earlier in the year that roughly 15,000 retail locations would close in the year. So far for 2026, B-17 has identified more than 1,500 planned closures. See the list of major closures below. Francesca’s: over 400 stores Francesca’s will host sales at all of its store locations. After filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on February 5, apparel retailer Francesca’s said it will conduct going-out-of-business sales at all of its roughly 400 stores across the US. Francesca’s previously filed for bankruptcy protection in 2020 before being acquired by TerraMar Capital and Tiger Group. “This process provides a structured path to pursue the best outcome for all stakeholders,” Curt Kroll, CFO, said in a February statement about the bankruptcy. “We remain focused on operating responsibly and supporting our teams, partners, and guests throughout this process.” Wendy’s: 300 stores Wendy’s is set to close hundreds of underperforming stores in 2026. In a February 13 earnings call, Wendy’s interim CEO Ken Cook said the company planned to close underperforming restaurants in the US, representing 5% to 6% of its roughly 6,000 locations. An estimated 5% of Wendy’s restaurants would come out to around 300 locations. Cook told investors to expect the closings to take place in the first half of 2026. Pizza Hut: 250 stores Pizza Hut operates about 20,000 stores globally. Restaurant chain Pizza Hut is set to close 250 underperforming stores in the US during the first half of 2026, its parent company, Yum! Brands, said in February. The reduction comes as part of a program to accelerate the Pizza Hut brand in the long term. The company said that the 250 targeted closures are a fraction of the 20,000 locations that Yum! Brands operates globally. Eddie Bauer: 175 stores The operating enti...
More than 1,500 stores are set to close across the US in 2026. Here's ...
More than 1,500 US retail stores and restaurants are set to close by the end of 2026. Major chains, including Wendy's and Macy's, are citing efficiency as the reason behind the closures.
5 Major Restaurant Chains Closing Doors in Arkansas: April 2026
The closures hitting Arkansas in April 2026 reflect a national "correction" in the restaurant industry. While it's hard to see local staples and national favorites leave, industry analysts suggest this is making room for a new wave of dining. We are already seeing a rise in local independent bistros and "fast-casual" concepts that require smaller footprints and fewer staff. For those with ...
5 Major Restaurant Chains are Shuttering Maryland Locations This Spring
The closures hitting Maryland in April 2026 are part of a broader national "correction." Beyond the restaurant sector, Maryland is seeing a similar bleed in retail, with Saks Off 5th slated to close its remaining stores (including Arundel Mills and Clarksburg) and Francesca's liquidating all mall locations. While it is difficult to see these staples leave, industry analysts suggest that the ...

