JCPenney Stores Closing in 2025: Full List of Locations & Reasons Behind Shutdowns

JCPenney, one of the oldest and most recognizable department store chains in the U.S., has announced additional store closures in 2025 as part of a broader effort to streamline operations and adapt to the ever-changing retail landscape. Known for its wide range of clothing, home goods, and cosmetics, JCPenney has been a staple in American shopping malls for over a century. However, as consumer habits shift and e-commerce continues to grow, even beloved institutions like JCPenney have to adapt.

If you’ve been wondering, Is JCPenney closing stores in 2025?—the answer is yes. The company’s decision to close several locations across the United States is part of a continued focus on profitability and operational efficiency. Below, we explore the specific stores slated for closure, the reasons behind the shutdowns, and what this means for shoppers, employees, and the future of JCPenney.

Which JCPenney Stores Are Closing in 2025?

The following JCPenney locations are set to close their doors permanently in 2025:

San Bruno, California – The Shops at Tanforan (Closing May 25, 2025)

Annapolis, Maryland – Westfield Annapolis Mall (Closing May 11, 2025)

Topeka, Kansas – West Ridge Mall (Closing May 31, 2025)

Charleston, West Virginia – Charleston Town Center (Closing May 2025)

These closures mark the latest round in a series of store shutdowns that have affected both JCPenney and other department stores across the U.S. Over the past few years, the retail industry has been dealing with significant changes in consumer shopping patterns, a decline in foot traffic at malls, and the continued rise of online shopping. JCPenney’s decision to close these locations is in response to these challenges, as well as its need to reassess its overall business model and retail footprint.

Why Is JCPenney Closing Stores?

There are several key reasons driving JCPenney's decision to close these stores. While it’s never easy to see a well-known retailer shut down its locations, these closures reflect broader trends in the retail industry and the company’s need to adapt to a shifting marketplace.

1. Leasing Agreements & Real Estate Shifts

One of the main drivers behind the closures is the expiration of certain leasing agreements. Many of JCPenney’s stores are located in malls or shopping centers, where the real estate landscape has been changing. Malls that were once vibrant centers of commerce have seen declining foot traffic as more consumers shop online or turn to specialty retailers. As a result, some landlords are choosing to redevelop the properties where JCPenney operates in favor of new tenants or different types of businesses.

In many cases, JCPenney simply does not want to renew its lease agreements at these locations due to unfavorable terms or the high cost of staying in these areas. For the company, it’s a strategic decision to move away from locations that no longer generate enough revenue to justify the investment. Redevelopment projects in certain areas have led to JCPenney closing its stores and finding more profitable locations elsewhere.

2. Financial Restructuring

JCPenney has been through a significant financial overhaul in recent years. The company filed for bankruptcy in 2020, a direct response to years of declining sales, rising competition, and changing shopping behaviors. While the company has worked hard to restructure and emerge from bankruptcy, it’s still dealing with the aftermath of its financial troubles.

The decision to close underperforming stores is part of JCPenney’s ongoing effort to streamline operations and focus on the most profitable parts of its business. As the company looks to balance its financial books, closing stores that are losing money or no longer fit with its long-term strategy is a necessary step to ensure its sustainability in the competitive retail environment.

3. Decline in Foot Traffic at Malls

Another significant factor in the store closures is the sharp decline in foot traffic at many shopping malls. Once the cornerstone of American retail, malls are no longer the bustling hubs they once were. Many malls have struggled to adapt to changing shopping habits, and as a result, major department stores like JCPenney have seen a drop in customers.

This decline in mall traffic has affected all brick-and-mortar retailers, not just JCPenney. With more consumers opting to shop online for convenience and lower prices, traditional malls have struggled to maintain the same level of appeal. As fewer shoppers visit these malls, stores like JCPenney are forced to make tough decisions about where to maintain a physical presence.

4. E-commerce Growth

In recent years, e-commerce has become a dominant force in the retail sector, and JCPenney is no exception. More and more consumers are opting to shop from the comfort of their homes, and JCPenney has been investing heavily in its online presence to meet this demand.

The shift to online shopping means that many consumers no longer feel the need to visit physical stores, particularly if they can find what they need from the comfort of their own home. As JCPenney continues to bolster its e-commerce capabilities, the need for a large network of physical stores diminishes. This shift is not just a trend for JCPenney but for many other retailers who have had to rethink their brick-and-mortar operations in light of the growing popularity of online shopping.

What This Means for JCPenney Shoppers

For loyal JCPenney shoppers, these store closures can bring a mix of emotions. For some, it’s a sad reminder that the retail landscape is changing, while for others, it may simply be another part of the evolving shopping experience.

1. Liquidation Sales

As is common with store closures, many of the locations that are shutting down in 2025 will likely hold liquidation sales before they close their doors for good. These sales often offer discounts of up to 50% off, and in some cases, even deeper markdowns, making it a great opportunity for bargain hunters to score deals on clothing, home goods, and other products. However, shoppers should act quickly, as the best deals tend to go fast, especially as the closure date approaches.

2. Shift to Online Shopping

With these closures, JCPenney is placing more emphasis on its e-commerce platform, allowing customers to shop online for a wider range of products. While the store closures may make it more difficult for some to access JCPenney’s physical locations, the company’s digital shift ensures that shoppers can still enjoy a wide selection of merchandise from home.

JCPenney’s website has become a crucial part of its strategy to stay relevant in the digital age. The company is investing in improving its online shopping experience, offering free shipping on certain orders, and providing easy returns to make online shopping as convenient as possible.

3. Fewer In-Store Options

For those who prefer the in-store shopping experience, these closures may mean fewer locations to visit. Shoppers may have to travel farther to find a JCPenney store, especially in regions where multiple stores are closing. While the company’s remaining locations will continue to serve customers, the overall convenience of accessing a JCPenney store may be impacted.

Is JCPenney Going Out of Business?

Despite the store closures, JCPenney is not going out of business. The company still operates over 650 stores nationwide and remains a key player in the U.S. retail market. While these closures represent a shift in the company’s approach to retail, JCPenney’s commitment to its remaining stores and its e-commerce platform suggests that it’s positioning itself for long-term sustainability.

JCPenney has faced significant challenges in recent years, but it continues to adapt and evolve in the face of changing consumer habits. The company’s restructuring efforts, including the store closures, are designed to ensure that JCPenney remains competitive and viable in a rapidly changing retail environment.

The Future of JCPenney

As JCPenney focuses on its restructuring efforts, it is clear that the company is positioning itself for a future that includes a more streamlined store footprint and greater emphasis on digital commerce. In addition to closing underperforming locations, the company is likely to invest in store remodels, improved customer experiences, and enhanced online shopping capabilities to meet the demands of today’s consumers.

JCPenney is also expected to continue its efforts to modernize its product offerings and store layouts to appeal to a younger, more digitally savvy audience. With a focus on profitability and customer satisfaction, JCPenney’s future may be different, but it’s not necessarily bleak.

Final Thoughts

The JCPenney store closures in 2025 represent a broader trend in the retail industry, where businesses must adapt to evolving shopping habits and changing market conditions. While these closures may disrupt some customers' routines, the company remains committed to serving its customers through its remaining locations and robust online platform.

For those looking to take advantage of clearance sales, now is the time to visit the closing stores before they shut their doors for good. And for shoppers who prefer to shop online, JCPenney’s digital offerings continue to expand, ensuring that the brand remains a convenient and accessible option for all.

While JCPenney’s retail landscape is shifting, the company’s future remains focused on evolving with the times and providing customers with an improved shopping experience.