JCPenney, once a cornerstone of American department store retail, is preparing to shut down seven more stores across the United States by May 25, marking another wave in its long restructuring journey post-bankruptcy.
Customers near the affected locations can take advantage of massive clearance sales — up to 90% off — before doors close for good.
Full List of JCPenney Stores Closing by May 25, 2025
- El Centro, California – Imperial Valley Mall
- Fort Collins, Colorado – Foothills Mall
- Lewiston, Idaho – Lewiston Center Mall
- Emporia, Kansas – Flinthills Mall
- Keene, New Hampshire – Monadnock Marketplace
- Rocky Mount, North Carolina – Golden East Crossing
- Elkins, West Virginia – Tygart Valley Mall
These store closures span seven states and are part of JCPenney’s continued efforts to streamline operations, rather than a direct result of new financial instability, according to the company.
“Isolated closures happen from time to time due to expiring lease agreements, market changes, or other factors,” a JCPenney spokesperson stated.
What’s on Sale?
In the days leading up to the closures, clearance sales are available across all departments, including:
- Apparel: Up to 90% off on men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, including national and private-label brands
- Home Goods: Bedding, cookware, area rugs, and décor
- Beauty: Makeup, skincare, and accessories
- Seasonal Items: Summer essentials, decorations, and outdoor gear
Customers can combine coupons, use the JCPenney Rewards program, and apply additional app-based savings to maximize discounts.
Post-Bankruptcy, Still Struggling
JCPenney filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2020 and has since closed more than 200 stores. The chain continues to operate under Simon Property Group and Brookfield Asset Management ownership, with a focus on profitability and leaner operations.
However, retail analysts warn that JCPenney’s recovery has been “patchy” at best. According to Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData, the brand must do more than just cut costs — it needs to evolve with modern shopping trends.
“JCPenney must snowball its small successes into consistent growth,” Saunders noted. “That’s difficult in an environment where consumer habits and the retail landscape are rapidly changing.”
Retail Collapse Looms Large
The broader U.S. retail market continues to see massive contraction:
- 15,000 store closures are expected in 2025, double the amount from 2024
- Coresight Research warns that closures are hitting clothing, electronics, hobby, book, and home furnishing retailers the hardest
- UBS predicts 45,000 retail stores may vanish from the U.S. landscape by 2029
Major chains such as Foot Locker, Tuesday Morning, and Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams have announced mass closures or filed for bankruptcy. Bed Bath & Beyond now operates online only after shuttering all its physical stores.
Department Stores Under Pressure
JCPenney’s core business model — as an anchor store in malls — has been heavily impacted by declining foot traffic, inflation, rising labor costs, and the e-commerce boom.
While retail giants like Walmart, Costco, and Home Depot are predicted to thrive, traditional department stores like JCPenney and Macy’s face a much tougher battle for survival.
Macy’s has also closed dozens of stores in recent years, and other longstanding department stores have followed suit, including the closure of iconic locations tied to American retail history.
What Shoppers Should Know
- Last Day: All seven stores will close by Saturday, May 25, 2025
- Sales: Up to 90% off across all departments
- Stack Deals: Use the JCPenney app, coupons, and rewards for extra savings
- Online shopping remains active at www.jcpenney.com
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.

Vikas Lalit is an experienced content writer at OTE News, covering business, economy, and international affairs. With a degree in Journalism, he combines analytical thinking with engaging storytelling to deliver well-researched updates. Vikas is passionate about uncovering underreported stories that impact readers.
Outside of work, he enjoys playing chess, following cricket, and writing short stories. His commitment to integrity and in-depth analysis strengthens OTE News’ mission of providing trustworthy journalism.