Kohl’s has announced plans to close 27 underperforming stores across more than a dozen U.S. states as part of an effort to improve profitability. The closures are expected to be completed by April and represent only a small portion of the retailer’s roughly 1,150 locations nationwide. In a statement, Kohl’s said it remains confident in the strength and long-term health of its remaining store base.
The decision marks one of the final actions by outgoing CEO Tom Kingsbury, who will step down this week. He will be succeeded by Ashley Buchanan, currently CEO of Michaels. Kingsbury will stay on as an advisor and board member until his retirement in May to support the leadership transition.
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Founded in 1962 and headquartered in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, Kohl’s is one of the largest department store chains in the U.S. The retailer offers clothing, footwear, beauty products, and home goods, featuring major brands like Nike, Levi’s, and Sephora, along with private labels such as Sonoma Goods for Life and Croft & Barrow. Its partnership with Sephora has added in-store beauty shops at many locations.
Like many department stores, Kohl’s has faced challenges adapting to changing consumer habits and online competition. The company recently warned of a larger-than-expected decline in holiday sales, and its stock has fallen nearly 40% over the past six months, according to CNN.
Despite these challenges, Kohl’s says it continues to adjust by refining store layouts, expanding product categories, and strengthening its digital and omnichannel shopping experience. The company has released a full list of the store locations scheduled to close.
