Joann Fabrics, well-known for its vast selection of fabrics and craft supplies, is making a significant change by announcing the closure of approximately 500 stores located across 49 states in the U.S. This decision comes after the company filed for bankruptcy for the second time in less than a year, highlighting serious challenges the retailer faces in today’s economy.
Joann Fabric and Crafts Files for Bankruptcy
In January 2025, Joann Fabrics filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing economic difficulties that have impacted the company’s finances. This filing follows an earlier bankruptcy in March 2024, showing that the company has struggled to regain its footing in a challenging retail environment. The closures are part of a plan referred to as “rightsizing the store footprint,” which means they are trying to find a better balance between the number of stores they have and their ability to operate them profitably.
What These Closures Mean for Customers
- Approximately 500 stores will close, affecting locations in every state except Hawaii.
- Big states like California and Florida will see the highest number of store closures.
- Going-out-of-business sales are expected to start on February 15, 2025, providing customers with discounted merchandise.
Reactions from the Community
Many Joann customers have expressed their disappointment over the closures, as the stores serve as community hubs for craft enthusiasts. Customers often gather for workshops and events, making the closures feel like losing a part of their local fabric. While some locations will close, Joann has reassured shoppers that they will still operate remaining stores and continue their online business, which has seen growth recently.
State-by-State Impact
The closures are not uniform across the country. A table listing the states with Joann stores that are set to close reveals that Texas will see 18 of its stores close, while places like Michigan and Florida are also experiencing substantial cuts. The following details provide insights into the closures by state:
| State | Number of Stores Closing |
|---|---|
| California | 60 |
| Florida | 50 |
| Texas | 18 |
| Michigan | 30 |
| New York | 25 |
The Bigger Picture: Challenges Facing Joann
The decision to close these stores comes amid a backdrop of industry challenges, including inventory shortages and reduced consumer spending. Joann’s management notes that it needs to make substantial changes to ensure the company can succeed in an evolving retail landscape where many customers are shopping online instead of at brick-and-mortar locations. The hope is that by reducing the number of stores, they can focus on making the remaining locations stronger and adapt better to the current market situation.
What Lies Ahead for Joann Fabrics
As Joann looks to the future, the plan is not just about the closures, but also about rebuilding. Recent efforts include remodels and new openings at select locations, demonstrating that the company is still committed to serving the crafting community. The restructuring process will be an essential step in helping Joann reposition itself for long-term success in the craft industry.
Stay Informed
For those hoping to find out if their local store will be affected or to learn more about the going-out-of-business sales, Joann has committed to keeping customers updated through its website and social media channels. You can also search for a complete list of store closures by visiting Joann’s official website, where additional details will be provided as they become available. The upcoming weeks are crucial for both the company and its customers as they navigate this significant transformation together.
