Key Highlights
- Macy’s plans to close 14 locations across 12 states in early 2026 as part of its “Bold New Chapter” strategy.
- The latest round of closures will begin with clearance sales starting mid-January and lasting about 10 weeks.
- Stores closing include Macy’s at Grossmont Center, West Valley Mall (Tracy), Northlake Mall (Atlanta), Marley Station Mall (Glen Burnie), RiverTown Crossings (Grandville), Crossro Center (Saint Cloud), Mall at Fox Run (Newington), Livingston Mall (Livingston), Interstate Shopping Center (Ramsey), Boulevard Mall (Amherst), Triangle Town Center (Raleigh), Frazer Heights Galleria (Tarentum), and La Palmera Mall (Corpus Christi).
- Macy’s is one of several retailers planning store closures, including Kroger, Foot Locker, and Carter’s.
Macy’s Closures: A Strategic Move in Retail Realignment
In a memo shared with employees on January 9, 2026, Macy’s CEO Tony Spring announced the latest round of store closures as part of the company’s ongoing “Bold New Chapter” plan. This strategic initiative is aimed at reallocating resources and strengthening the brand by focusing on high-performing locations.
Stores Set for Closure in Early 2026
The affected stores are located in California, Georgia, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Washington. These closures will begin with clearance sales starting mid-January 2026, lasting approximately 10 weeks.
Impact on Employees
Macy’s is committed to supporting impacted employees through the transition. The company has stated that it will offer transfer opportunities where available and provide severance and support as needed.
Bold New Chapter: Macy’s Strategic Plan
The “Bold New Chapter” plan was first announced in February 2024, with a goal of closing 150 underperforming stores by the end of 2026. The strategy also includes prioritizing investment in approximately 350 go-forward locations and expanding small-format stores.
Macy’s had approximately 480 namesake department stores as of February 2024, with the current store count at 424 after an initial round of closures announced in early 2025. This latest announcement highlights Macy’s commitment to adapting to changing retail landscapes and improving overall performance.
As other retailers also plan to shutter some locations, including Kroger, Foot Locker, and Carter’s, this move by Macy’s is part of a broader trend in the retail sector. The closures are driven by factors such as underperformance or financial difficulties exacerbated by tariffs.
Industry Context: Retail Realignment
The retail industry continues to undergo significant changes, with major companies adjusting their strategies to survive and thrive. Macy’s is not alone in this transformation; numerous other retailers are also implementing store closures and relocations as part of their own strategic plans.
Future Implications
The closures by Macy’s and other retailers have broader implications for the retail sector, including workforce impacts, real estate markets, and consumer behavior. As these changes continue to unfold, industry experts will closely monitor how they affect both companies and consumers alike.
In conclusion, Macy’s closure plans in early 2026 are a significant step in the company’s strategic evolution. While it may bring challenges for affected employees and local communities, it also represents an opportunity for Macy’s to streamline its operations and focus on growth in key areas.
