Earlier this year, JCPenney unfortunately confirmed that it would close stores in seven states, marking another wave in the ongoing retail downturn. This decision has shocked loyal shoppers and communities who had long relied on the department store as a local anchor.
The store closures, which are expected to wrap up by May, reflect the broader struggles in the retail industry. JCPenney says the decision is due to expiring leases, changes in the market, and shifting consumer habits. This isn’t an isolated case; it’s part of a broader pattern affecting malls and shopping centers across the country.
The Broader Retail Collapse
JCPenney’s retreat shows a major shift in American retail, with nearly 15,000 store closures expected in 2025. This is almost double the 7,325 closures recorded in 2024 and even surpasses pandemic-era records.
This trend extends far beyond JCPenney. Many other legendary department stores, like Sears, Macy’s, and Joann Fabrics, are also closing locations because of rising pressures from e-commerce, inflation, and changing consumer habits. As these important stores disappear, they leave behind empty spaces and shake the foundation of malls and shopping centers across America, changing the way Americans shop.
Maintaining Their Customer Base
Department stores like JCPenney once thrived by catering to the middle class, offering affordable products and convenience for families across America. However, in recent years, rising costs and stagnant wages have significantly deteriorated the purchasing power of this demographic, making it harder for mid-tier retailers to maintain their customer base.
Because of this, many shoppers now prefer discount chains for budget-friendly options or turn to luxury retailers for premium experiences, avoiding traditional department stores. As we mentioned before, JCPenney is closing stores in seven states; let’s take a look at these seven states.
1. California
JCPenney’s closure at The Shops at Tanforan in San Bruno, California, marks a significant change for Bay Area shoppers. This popular location has been a staple for many families and offered clothes, home goods, and more for decades. However, because of expiring leases, declining mall traffic, and the company’s strategy to focus on more profitable locations, JCPenney is shutting down this location.
For many locals, the store’s closure feels like losing a familiar community hub. As Tanforan Mall undergoes redevelopment, JCPenney’s exit shows the wider difficulties department stores face in California, where high expenses and the growth of online shopping are rapidly changing how people shop.
2. Colorado
Denver’s The Shops at Northfield will soon lose its JCPenney, a fixture in the local retail scene. This store is scheduled to close in May 2025 as part of the company’s nationwide downsizing. For years, shoppers in Denver have relied on this location for affordable fashion and household essentials. This location is being closed because of financial pressures and changing consumer habits.
The closure leaves a gap in the Northfield shopping experience, impacting neighboring businesses and mall traffic. As Colorado’s retail environment changes, the community must adapt to fewer traditional department stores and an increased emphasis on online shopping.
3. Idaho
In Pocatello, Idaho, the JCPenney at Pine Ridge Mall is set to close, ending a long chapter for local shoppers. This store has been around for generations, providing clothing, shoes, and home goods. The decision to close this location is due to a decline in in-store sales and the growing dominance of e-commerce.
With JCPenney gone, Pine Ridge Mall will have to find a new anchor tenant to fill the gap and replace JCPenney’s steady draw of customers. The closure also means that the residents of Pocatello will have fewer retail choices and a drop in convenience. It also shows the struggle smaller cities face in keeping a variety of stores as shopping habits continue to change.
4. Kansas
JCPenney is preparing to close its doors at Topeka’s West Ridge Mall, ending a long run as an anchor store and local favorite. The move is part of the company’s broader push to cut costs and simplify operations. For years, families turned to this store for everything from back-to-school clothes to holiday shopping, making its departure a meaningful loss for the community.
Topeka’s West Ridge Mall will be heavily impacted, as anchor stores like JCPenney are very important for attracting foot traffic and supporting smaller retailers. As JCPenney prepares to leave, Topeka shoppers must look for alternatives, and the mall will need innovative solutions to fill the void left by this iconic department store.
5. New Hampshire
Fox Run Mall in Newington, New Hampshire, will soon say goodbye to its JCPenney store. This location has been around for years and was a reliable destination for affordable apparel and home goods. The closure is due to JCPenney’s need to adapt to changing shopping habits and declining mall visits.
For the Newington community, JCPenney’s closure marks the end of an era, as department stores have long provided shoppers with convenience and variety. The mall’s management must now work to bring in new tenants to keep the space lively and appealing. The closure shows the shifting retail landscape in New Hampshire and the broader challenges that traditional malls face.
6. North Carolina
This iconic store’s exit from Asheville Mall in North Carolina marks the end of an era for local shoppers. JCPenney has been a go-to for families in North Carolina seeking affordable fashion and home essentials. This closure is scheduled for May 2025 and is part of the company’s strategy to optimize its store footprint.
Asheville Mall is also losing an anchor store, which could affect the overall traffic and the success of surrounding businesses. For the Asheville community, the store’s departure means that residents will have fewer shopping options. It is also a reminder of the retail industry’s ongoing transformation in the face of digital competition and changing consumer behaviors.
7. West Virginia
West Virginia is the final state on our list. Charleston Town Center in Charleston, West Virginia, will also lose its JCPenney this year, which is a cornerstone of the downtown shopping experience. This location’s closure is also part of JCPenney’s nationwide effort to consolidate operations and focus on stronger markets. For years, this location has provided residents with clothing, home goods, and a sense of community.
The mall, which is already facing economic pressures, must now find ways to attract new tenants and maintain foot traffic. The loss of JCPenney is a blow to Charleston’s retail landscape, showing the broader challenges department stores are facing in smaller urban centers.
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