JOANN Fabric Stores Closing: Is Retail Doomed in 2025?
The retail landscape is shifting once again, and this time, JOANN Fabric and Craft Stores are facing closures across multiple locations. As 2025 unfolds, the beloved crafting and sewing retailer is scaling back operations, leaving customers wondering about the future of brick-and-mortar stores in an increasingly digital world.
The Decline of JOANN Fabric Stores
Founded in 1943, JOANN has been a staple for DIY enthusiasts, offering fabrics, sewing supplies, and craft materials for generations. However, in recent years, the company has struggled to keep up with the changing market, battling challenges such as declining foot traffic, rising operational costs, and increased competition from online giants like Amazon and specialty retailers like Michaels and Hobby Lobby.
In late 2023 and early 2024, JOANN announced plans to shutter several underperforming locations, sparking concerns about the company’s long-term viability. While some stores will remain open, the closures indicate a broader trend of retail shrinkage that has affected numerous legacy brands.
The Retail Apocalypse Continues
JOANN's closures are just the latest chapter in the ongoing “retail apocalypse.” Over the past decade, many well-known retailers—including Bed Bath & Beyond, Sears, and Tuesday Morning—have either downsized significantly or gone out of business entirely. The rise of e-commerce, shifting consumer habits, and economic uncertainty have all contributed to the decline of traditional retail spaces.
Retail experts predict that 2025 could see even more closures as businesses struggle to adapt to inflation, supply chain disruptions, and changing shopping behaviors. The crafting industry itself has seen a shift toward digital platforms, with many hobbyists now purchasing materials through online retailers or subscribing to digital crafting tutorials rather than visiting physical stores.
What’s Next for JOANN and Retail in General?
Despite the closures, JOANN is not disappearing entirely. The company has expressed a commitment to strengthening its online presence and optimizing its remaining locations. Some analysts believe that retailers that embrace hybrid models—offering both in-store experiences and strong e-commerce platforms—have the best chance of surviving in the long term.
For consumers, these closures mean fewer in-person options for fabric and craft supplies, pushing them toward alternative sources. While local fabric shops and online retailers may fill the gap, the loss of JOANN stores will be felt by many loyal customers who rely on their products and in-store expertise.
As 2025 progresses, the fate of traditional retail remains uncertain. Will other major brands follow in JOANN’s footsteps, or will retailers find innovative ways to adapt? One thing is clear: the industry must continue evolving to keep up with the changing demands of modern consumers.
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