Popular New Jersey Department Store Announces Surprise Closings

I enter every new year with increased positivity. It doesn't always come quickly, but what's the alternative?

2024 was not a great year for retail, and I hoped to start 2025 with some good news. Unfortunately, retailers are still struggling badly.

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Many iconic brands are trying to stay afloat with shopping habits leaning increasingly in the digital direction.

Take Macy's, for example. The company has announced its plan to close 150 "underperforming stores" by 2026.

Specifics about the 66 stores being shut down have not been finalized. It's thought that New York, California, Florida, and Texas will be affected. So far, New Jersey Macy's stores seem to be safe.

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Big Lots is another retailer dealing with significant financial difficulties. In 2024, the discount store filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

As part of its "restructuring plan," Big Lots plans to close up to 315 underperforming stores. Many New Jersey locations will sadly close soon.

Kohl's is one department store near me that never seemed to be struggling, at least not in Toms River. The lines are always dozens deep when I swing by.

Sure, Kohl's is battling like every other chain, but some recent innovations have stopped the bleeding.

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One of the best additions to Kohl's lately has been their partnership with Amazon.

Think about it. Kohl's was bold enough to tag team with the monster, causing so much of their headaches. It's like they say, "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em."

It's a game changer that allows me to stop by my local Kohl's to return Amazon items and get an instant refund.

Kohl's has also partnered with Sephora at select stores and opened mini Sephora locations to be a part of Kohl's shopping experience.

Even these additions haven't ultimately helped Kohl's loss of customers.

Tom Kingsbury, CEO of Kohl’s, echoed the plan of many department stores.

As we continue to build on our long-term growth strategy, it is important that we also take difficult but necessary actions to support the health and future of our business for our customers and our teams.

The Daily Voice reports that two Kohl's locations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania are slated to close by April 2025.

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