Joann Fabric and Craft Stores, a staple in the crafting community, has announced that it will be closing numerous physical locations as part of a strategic shift to focus more on its online sales platform. The company has revealed plans to shutter 200 of its stores across the United States, a move that will significantly reduce its brick-and-mortar footprint. Joann CEO Wade Miquelon stated, “We are evolving to meet our customers where they are increasingly shopping, and that is online. This is a necessary step to ensure our long-term growth and sustainability.”
The closures come amid increasing competition from both online giants and local craft retailers, prompting Joann to reconsider its operational strategy. The decision was influenced by a 15% decline in in-store sales over the past year, which Joann aims to counteract by enhancing its digital presence. Miquelon elaborated, “While these store closures are difficult, we believe this positions us to better serve our customers and adapt to changing shopping habits.”
The affected locations are slated for closure by the end of the 2025 fiscal year, with many customers expressing dismay at the news. Long-time patrons and craft enthusiasts took to social media to voice their concerns about losing their local Joann store, a place where they could gather, learn, and shop for supplies. One customer shared, “It feels like losing a community hub. Where will we go for our crafting needs?”
In addition to the closure announcement, Joann is investing in enhancing its e-commerce website, improving inventory management systems, and increasing its product offerings online. As part of this transition, the company is also planning to unveil an interactive crafting platform that will allow customers to engage with the brand in new and innovative ways. Industry experts believe that this pivot towards e-commerce is crucial as more consumers prioritize convenience in their shopping experiences.
The implications of these closures extend beyond just Joann; they may signal a larger trend within the retail sector as physical stores face growing pressure to adapt to the increasing dominance of online shopping. “Retailers must evaluate their business models and be willing to make tough decisions to survive and thrive in this rapidly changing landscape,” commented retail analyst Sarah Johnson.
