Joann Fabrics has been a popular store for crafting supplies for many years. Recently, there have been rumors and concerns about some Joann Fabrics stores closing down. This has caused a lot of uncertainty among customers who rely on the store for fabric, sewing materials, and craft items. People are worried about losing access to their local stores, especially if they have been long-time shoppers.
The closure of these stores could mean less convenience for customers. Many people visit Joann Fabrics for its wide range of products at affordable prices. Some customers also fear that if stores close, it might be a sign of financial struggles for the company.
Table of Contents
The Rumors of Store Closures
Rumors about Joann Fabrics closing stores have been spreading across the country. These rumors began when some locations were reported to be shutting down. This led many people to believe that the company was facing major financial problems or planning to close stores everywhere. As a result, customers started to worry about the future of Joann Fabrics and whether they would lose their local store.
However, Joann Fabrics has addressed these rumors and clarified the situation. The company explained that only certain stores are closing, often due to reasons like low sales or issues with leases. These closures are not part of a larger plan to shut down the entire chain. Joann Fabrics reassured its customers that most of its stores will remain open and continue to operate as usual.
Despite this, the rumors have caused concern among shoppers. Many people rely on Joann Fabrics for crafting supplies, and the idea of losing access to their local store is troubling. The company has urged customers to check for updates on individual store locations to confirm if their nearby store is affected.
Reasons Behind Joann Fabrics’ Store Closures
Declining Sales and Financial Struggles
Joann Fabrics has faced declining sales in recent years, with a significant loss reported in its 2019 fiscal year. The surge in DIY projects during the pandemic did not last, and sales returned to sluggish levels. The company has struggled to maintain profitability, leading to its decision to close some stores.
Increased Competition
Joann Fabrics has been dealing with increased competition from both online retailers and other craft stores. As consumers shifted to online shopping, Joann’s physical stores faced challenges in attracting enough foot traffic. This increased competition further strained the company’s financial performance.
Debt and Private Equity Involvement
Joann’s financial difficulties were compounded by a leveraged buyout in 2011 by Leonard Green & Partners, which left the company burdened with significant debt. Despite efforts to restructure and go public in 2021, the company’s debt continued to weigh heavily on its operations, leading to bankruptcy filings and store closures.
Impact of Bankruptcy and Store Closures
The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2024 and 2025, and as part of the restructuring process, Joann Fabrics announced the closure of all 800 stores across the U.S. While the company’s online platform will remain operational, these store closures mark a major shift in the crafting retail landscape.
Which Locations Are Closing
Joann Fabrics Announces Store Closures
Joann Fabrics is closing approximately 500 stores across the United States as part of its Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. The closures are taking place in multiple states, including high-impact areas such as California, Florida, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. California is seeing the highest number of closures, with 61 stores being shut down, followed by other states like New York and Washington.
Affected Locations
The closures are not limited to just a few cities but include locations across various regions. For example, stores in Montgomery and Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and in Anchorage and Juneau, Alaska, are on the list. Customers who frequently visit these stores will be affected as they lose access to nearby Joann Fabrics locations.
Impact on Customers
These closures will significantly affect customers who rely on Joann Fabrics for their crafting supplies. While the company will continue to operate its online platform, the loss of physical stores will be felt by many shoppers. Customers in the affected areas will need to find alternative stores to fulfill their crafting needs.
Impact of Store Closures on Customers
The closure of Joann Fabrics stores will have a significant impact on customers who rely on these locations for their crafting and hobby needs. Many customers have been loyal to the brand, visiting the stores regularly for supplies, fabrics, and craft materials. With these closures, they will face inconvenience as they will need to travel further to find alternative stores.
Additionally, some customers who prefer shopping in-store for personal assistance or hands-on shopping experiences will find it difficult to adapt to shopping exclusively online. Joann’s online platform remains operational, but it may not provide the same level of immediacy that physical stores offer. The loss of convenient access to stores will likely lead to frustration among long-time shoppers.
Joann Fabrics’ Plans for the Future
Joann Fabrics’ Bankruptcy and Store Closures
Joann Fabrics has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for the second time in under a year. As part of this, the company announced the closure of all its U.S. stores, citing declining consumer demand and inventory challenges as the main reasons for the closures. The company is now in the process of liquidating its assets.
Online Operations Continue
Despite the closures of physical stores, Joann Fabrics’ online platform remains operational. Customers will still be able to purchase crafting supplies and other products from the website. The company aims to continue serving its customer base through its online store, which has become increasingly important in recent years.
Restructuring Plans and Future Options
Joann Fabrics is actively exploring options to restructure its brand and continue its operations. The company is seeking potential buyers who may be interested in maintaining some of the store operations and preserving its legacy in the crafting industry. However, if no suitable buyers emerge, the company may proceed with full liquidation.
Conclusion
Joann Fabrics is closing its U.S. stores as part of its Chapter 11 bankruptcy process. The closures will affect many customers who regularly shop at these locations for their crafting needs. While some areas will be hit harder than others, many locations will no longer be accessible to shoppers.
Despite this, Joann Fabrics will continue its online operations, allowing customers to shop for supplies online. The company is also exploring options to restructure and find potential buyers. However, if no buyers are found, complete liquidation may occur, ending Joann’s physical presence in the retail market.