JOANN Stores to Close Over 500 Locations Amid Second Bankruptcy Filing

JOANN Fabrics and Crafts, a popular retailer known for its wide selection of fabric, sewing supplies, and craft materials, has announced the closure of more than 500 stores as part of its second bankruptcy filing. The closures will significantly impact the brand's presence across the U.S., including several locations in the Capital Region of New York. Among the impacted stores are three in the area including a Clifton Country Road in Clifton Park location, another on Central Avenue in Albany, and a third on State Highway 30 in Amsterdam. 

The decision to close these locations comes after JOANN's attempt to stabilize financially through restructuring efforts in the past, but the challenges of the broader retail environment, including rising operating costs and shifts in consumer habits, have left the company with little choice but to reduce its footprint. While the closures will affect employees and customers in these communities, the company has vowed to support those impacted and continue operations at 300 locations in other regions. These store closures mark a new chapter for JOANN as it looks to navigate the complexities of the modern retail landscape.