Pennsylvania, December 30, 2025
Significant changes are on the horizon for Pennsylvania’s retail scene as major retailers, including Carter’s, Macy’s, and Foot Locker, plan to close stores by 2026. This trend highlights shifting consumer behaviors and the growing prominence of e-commerce. While some businesses exit, others may fill the gaps and spur innovation in the local market, contributing to the state’s economic evolution.
Multiple Pennsylvania Retailers Plan Store Closures in 2026
Philadelphia is poised to experience significant changes in its retail landscape as several major retailers have announced plans to close stores in Pennsylvania by 2026. This trend reflects broader shifts in consumer behavior and the continued rise of e-commerce, which are leading businesses to reevaluate their physical presence.
As local entrepreneurs and small businesses demonstrate resilience and adaptability, these closures stress the importance of innovation and strategic planning. While some retailers exit the market, others may seize the opportunity to fill the gaps left behind, further contributing to Philadelphia’s economic dynamism.
Carter’s Announces Store Closures
Carter’s, a prominent children’s and baby apparel retailer, plans to close 150 stores across North America by the end of 2026. In Pennsylvania, the brand operates 33 stores, including locations in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Lancaster. The company has not specified which specific stores will be affected, but this move emphasizes the ongoing adjustments required in today’s retail environment.
Macy’s to Close Multiple Locations
Macy’s has announced that it will close 150 stores by the end of 2026, prioritizing its most successful locations while enhancing its online shopping capabilities. Currently, Macy’s operates 18 stores in Pennsylvania, with notable closures already impacting the Center City Philadelphia location, as well as outlets in Exton, Altoona, and Wilkes-Barre.
Foot Locker to Reduce Store Count
Foot Locker is revising its business strategy by planning to close 400 underperforming stores across its network by 2026. With 26 locations operating in Pennsylvania, the specific stores slated for closure have not yet been disclosed. This reiterates the trend of companies reassessing their retail footprints to align with changing consumer preferences.
Walgreens Continues Store Closures
Walgreens is executing a three-year plan initiated in October 2024 to close underperforming stores as their leases expire. Currently, Walgreens has 67 stores in Pennsylvania, but a list of specific closures has yet to be released. This strategy is indicative of how retailers are seeking to optimize their operations in a challenging retail environment.
Yankee Candle to Close Stores
Yankee Candle’s parent company, Newell Brands, announced plans to close 20 stores nationwide, including 18 store locations in Pennsylvania. The closures are set to begin in January 2026, marking another significant shift in the retail landscape for the state.
Wendy’s Plans Nationwide Closures
Wendy’s, operating 260 fast-food restaurants in Pennsylvania, plans to reduce its footprint by closing between 150 and 300 locations nationwide by the end of 2026. Details on specific Pennsylvania locations affected remain unavailable, but this strategy aligns with ongoing trends across the fast-food industry towards optimizing restaurant performance.
REI to Close Stores in Nearby States
REI, known for its outdoor gear and apparel, has announced store closures in nearby states. While no closures will occur at the four existing locations in Pennsylvania, the closures in regions such as New Jersey and New York City highlight the ongoing retail adjustments affecting many retailers.
Red Robin Reduces Planned Closures
Red Robin, initially looking to close 70 underperforming restaurants nationwide by 2025, has revised its plan to 50 closures by 2030. With 31 locations in Pennsylvania, it’s unclear how these changes will specifically impact the state, but it demonstrates the brand’s commitment to reassessing its business operations.
Saks Off 5th to Close Two Pennsylvania Stores
Saks Off 5th has announced the closure of its locations in Pittsburgh and Plymouth Meeting, part of a wider plan to shut down nine stores nationwide. These two locations, along with one in Franklin Mills, represent an important shift in luxury outlet retailing within the state.
Impact on Pennsylvania Retail Landscape
The planned closures of these major retailers showcase a profound transformation within the retail industry, emphasizing a need for adaptation and innovation. As companies pivot towards more digital strategies, local consumers may soon see notable changes in their shopping experiences across the state. This mix of challenges and opportunities could foster new entrepreneurial endeavors, invigorating Pennsylvania’s economy and encouraging local investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which retailers are planning store closures in Pennsylvania by 2026?
Retailers planning store closures in Pennsylvania by 2026 include Carter’s, Macy’s, Foot Locker, Walgreens, Yankee Candle, Wendy’s, REI, Red Robin, and Saks Off 5th.
How many Foot Locker stores are there in Pennsylvania?
Foot Locker operates 26 stores in Pennsylvania.
Which Macy’s stores in Pennsylvania have already closed?
Macy’s has closed the Center City Philadelphia location, as well as stores in Exton, Altoona, and Wilkes-Barre.
Will REI’s store in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, close?
No, REI’s store in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, is not affected by the planned closures in nearby states.
How many Red Robin locations are there in Pennsylvania?
Red Robin has 31 locations in Pennsylvania.
Key Features of Retail Store Closures in Pennsylvania by 2026
| Retailer | Number of Stores Closing | Planned Closure Date | Locations Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carter’s | 150 stores nationwide | By end of 2026 | 33 stores in Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Lancaster |
| Macy’s | 150 stores nationwide | By end of 2026 | 18 stores in Pennsylvania, with closures in Center City Philadelphia, Exton, Altoona, and Wilkes-Barre |
| Foot Locker | 400 stores nationwide | By 2026 | 26 stores in Pennsylvania |
| Walgreens | Undisclosed number | Ongoing through 2026 | 67 stores in Pennsylvania |
| Yankee Candle | 20 stores nationwide | Starting January 2026 | 18 stores in Pennsylvania |
| Wendy’s | 150 to 300 stores nationwide | By end of 2026 | 260 restaurants in Pennsylvania |
| REI | 3 stores nationwide | Starting first quarter of 2026 | 4 stores in Pennsylvania, including Montgomery County (not affected) |
| Red Robin | 50 restaurants nationwide | By 2030 | 31 locations in Pennsylvania |
| Saks Off 5th | 9 stores nationwide | Not specified | 3 stores in Pennsylvania, with closures in Pittsburgh and Plymouth Meeting |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
