The topic of JCPenney stores closing has once again taken center stage as seven more locations across the United States are confirmed to shut their doors for good by May 25, 2025. This development has stirred concern among loyal shoppers and employees alike, as the legacy department store continues navigating the complex post-pandemic retail environment.
Unlike previous closure waves driven by bankruptcy, this round reflects evolving real estate strategies and consumer shifts. The stores affected have begun rolling out massive clearance sales, with discounts slashed up to 90%, attracting a flurry of bargain hunters looking to score deals before these stores disappear.
📍 Latest JCPenney Stores Closing in 2025
Here are the seven stores scheduled to close permanently by the end of May:
- Charleston Town Center, Charleston, West Virginia
- Fox Run Mall, Newington, New Hampshire
- West Ridge Mall, Topeka, Kansas
- Asheville Mall, Asheville, North Carolina
- Pine Ridge Mall, Chubbuck, Idaho
- The Shops at Northfield, Denver, Colorado
- The Shops at Tanforan, San Bruno, California
Each of these locations has begun their final weeks of operation with deep discounts on everything from apparel to home décor.
🔻 Why Are These JCPenney Stores Closing?
The decision behind these closures is linked to multiple factors:
- Expiring Mall Leases: Many of the malls housing these JCPenney stores are being repurposed or are struggling with declining foot traffic.
- Post-COVID Retail Adjustments: The way people shop has fundamentally changed, with online platforms capturing a greater share of the market.
- Operational Strategy: JCPenney continues restructuring under its new leadership umbrella to focus on profitability and future resilience.
Despite no official bankruptcy tied to this wave of closures, it marks a critical moment in the chain’s realignment strategy.
💸 Clearance Sales: Final Bargain Days Before Closure
As part of the JCPenney stores closing process, the affected locations are offering unprecedented markdowns:
| Department | Discount Range |
|---|---|
| Apparel (Men/Women/Kids) | Up to 90% off |
| Home Goods | Up to 70% off |
| Beauty & Fragrance | Up to 50% off |
| Bedding & Decor | Up to 60% off |
Shoppers are advised to check inventory early. Popular sizes and seasonal merchandise are selling out quickly.
🧭 JCPenney’s New Direction in 2025
In early 2025, JCPenney merged operations under the broader retail group now known as Catalyst Brands. This coalition brings together household names like Forever 21 and Aéropostale. The aim is to pool resources, enhance omnichannel shopping, and manage physical store count strategically.
Marc Rosen, who led JCPenney during its initial turnaround, now oversees Catalyst Brands and is tasked with ensuring smoother integration while safeguarding brand identity.
🛍️ Future of Brick-and-Mortar: What JCPenney Closures Reveal
The closure of these seven stores is a symptom of a larger issue in American retail:
- Traditional malls are losing relevance in many communities.
- Operational costs are high, and ROI for many locations no longer makes sense.
- E-commerce, curbside pickup, and hybrid models are dominating consumer preferences.
Retail analysts expect that other stores may face similar decisions if performance benchmarks aren’t met. JCPenney’s leadership has not ruled out more closures later in the year.
🕔 What’s Next for Customers and Employees?
For shoppers, now is the final chance to snag beloved private labels and national brands at steep discounts. Rewards members are also receiving personalized bonus offers via the JCP app.
For employees, transitions have already begun. Some are being relocated to other locations; others are receiving severance and job assistance. Despite the closures, JCPenney reassures customers that their online and nationwide operations remain strong.
✅ Final Reminder Before Doors Close
If you live near one of the seven closing stores, don’t wait. Clearance pricing is already in effect, and the last day of operation for all seven stores is May 25, 2025. Once doors close, they won’t reopen. Expect fixtures, display racks, and store equipment to be sold off in the final days as well.
🛍️ Don’t miss the deals—visit a closing JCPenney store near you before May 25 and save big on fashion, home goods, and more!