Jacksonville, December 30, 2025
Several major retailers in Florida have announced plans to close numerous stores in 2026, marking a notable change in the state’s retail landscape. This decision is influenced by a shift towards online shopping and various economic pressures. Retailers such as Macy’s, Carter’s, and Walgreens are among those reassessing their physical store presence, potentially leading to increased vacancies but also opportunities for local businesses. This evolving retail environment emphasizes the necessity for adaptability among retailers and the resilience of the Florida economy.
Florida Retailers Announce 2026 Store Closures
A Changing Landscape for Florida’s Retail Sector
Jacksonville, FL – Multiple retailers in Florida have recently announced plans to close stores in 2026, signaling a shift in the retail landscape that could reshape the consumer experience across the state. This development comes as businesses increasingly navigate the evolving preferences of consumers and the financial pressures that have arisen in the retail environment.
The announcements reflect a broader trend of retailers reassessing their physical store footprints. As businesses adapt to the growing demand for online shopping, local entrepreneurs and small businesses may find new opportunities to fill the gaps left by these closures. This change can also highlight the resilience of the Florida economy, which continues to attract investments even as established retailers scale back.
Retailers Planning Closures in Florida
- Carter’s: Plans to close approximately 100 stores by the end of 2026, part of a larger strategy to shutter 150 locations over three years.
- Dick’s Sporting Goods: Will close underperforming stores following its acquisition of Foot Locker in 2025. Specific Florida locations have yet to be disclosed.
- Macy’s: Announced plans to close 150 stores by the end of 2026, including at least seven locations in Florida in 2025.
- Saks Off 5th: Plans to shut down nine stores, including several in Florida.
- Walgreens: Continuing its three-year initiative to close underperforming stores, impacting 243 locations in Florida.
- Wendy’s: Intends to close between 150 and 300 locations nationwide, with 494 restaurants in Florida.
- Yankee Candle: Parent company Newell Brands plans to close 20 stores starting in January 2026.
Implications for Florida’s Retail Market
The planned closures from these retailers signify significant shifts not only in operational strategies but also in consumer behavior. Retailers are compelled to optimize their physical presence and enhance their online capabilities to meet the changing demands of shoppers. This scenario may lead to an increase in vacant retail spaces but could also serve as an opportunity for new entrants into the market.
Background Context of Retail Closure Trends
As consumer preferences continue to evolve, many retailers are pivoting to cater more effectively to online shopping habits. Operational efficiency and digital strategies have become focal points for survival in a competitive market. This trend is consistent across various sectors, including apparel, home goods, and fast food, and suggests an overarching reevaluation of how retail can operate in today’s economy.
Conclusion: The Future of Florida’s Retail Sector
The wave of store closures signals an important transition within Florida’s retail sector, reflecting the need for adaptability among businesses. As consumers navigate this changing landscape, stakeholders—including local entrepreneurs and small businesses—should stay informed and consider leveraging potential opportunities that arise from these shifts.
FAQ
- Which retailers in Florida are planning store closures in 2026?
- Carter’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Macy’s, Saks Off 5th, Walgreens, Wendy’s, and Yankee Candle have announced plans to close stores in Florida in 2026.
- How many Carter’s stores are closing in Florida?
- Carter’s plans to close approximately 100 stores by the end of 2026, as part of a broader plan to shutter 150 locations over the next three years.
- What is the reason behind these store closures?
- Retailers are reevaluating their physical store footprints in response to changing consumer behaviors and economic pressures, focusing more on enhancing their online presence and operational efficiency.
- How will these closures affect Florida’s retail landscape?
- The closures may lead to increased vacancies and potential opportunities for new businesses to enter the market, reflecting the evolving nature of the retail industry in Florida.
Key Features of the Retail Store Closures in Florida
| Retailer | Number of Stores Closing | Reason for Closure | Impact on Florida |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carter’s | Approximately 100 by end of 2026 | Part of a plan to close 150 locations over three years | Potential vacancies and market shifts |
| Dick’s Sporting Goods | Undisclosed number | Closing underperforming stores post-Foot Locker acquisition | Specific Florida locations not disclosed |
| Macy’s | 150 by end of 2026 | Focus on best-performing locations and online experience | At least 66 closures in 2025, including seven in Florida |
| Saks Off 5th | Nine locations | Undisclosed | Florida locations included |
| Walgreens | Undisclosed number | Closing underperforming stores as part of a three-year plan | 243 locations in Florida |
| Wendy’s | Between 150 and 300 by end of 2026 | Undisclosed | 494 restaurants in Florida |
| Yankee Candle | 20 locations | Undisclosed | Starting in January 2026 |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
