Macy stores closing in 2025 have raised big questions about shopping trends. The famous department store chain announced plans to shut down more locations, blaming slow sales and changing customer habits. Let’s look at why this is happening and what it means.
Macy’s History: From Icon to Struggle
Macy’s Store started in 1858 and grew into one of America’s most beloved stores. Known for its Thanksgiving Day Parade and giant NYC flagship location, Macy’s was once the go-to spot for clothes, home goods and holiday shopping. But in recent years, the company has faced challenges. Since 2020, Macy’s closed over 150 stores as shoppers moved online or chose cheaper brands.
Why Are More Macy Stores Closing in 2025?
In January 2025, Macy’s announced it would close 30 more stores across the U.S. The company said customers are spending less on non-essential items like fancy clothes or decor. High inflation (rising prices) and worries about the economy made people tighten their budgets. Macy’s CEO, Jeff Gennette, called it a “retail reality check” and said stores must adapt to survive.
The Consumer Spending Alarm
Macy’s is not the only store struggling. Big retailers like Bed Bath & Beyond and Sears also closed shops in recent years. But Macy’s latest warning highlights a bigger issue: consumer spending is slowing down. When prices for basics like food and gas go up, people cut back on shopping for fun stuff. In 2025, credit card debt hit record highs, making families even more careful with money.
Online Shopping vs. Macy’s
Another reason for Macy stores closing is the rise of online shopping. Websites like Amazon, Shein and Temu let people buy clothes and home goods cheaply and quickly. Macy’s tried to boost its online sales, but it couldn’t keep up. Younger shoppers especially prefer apps and fast delivery over visiting a mall.
What Happens to Employees and Malls?
Closing stores means job losses. About 2,000 Macy’s workers will lose their jobs in 2025. Many malls, already hurt by earlier closures, might become emptier. Some towns worry about losing their Macy’s as a key anchor store that brings shoppers to the area.
Macy’s New Strategy
To stay alive, Macy’s is focusing on smaller stores and luxury brands. In 2024, they opened “Market by Macy’s” shops in strip malls, selling trendy items and beauty products. They’re also investing in Bluemercury (their makeup chain) and Backstage (their discount section). The company hopes these changes will attract younger, budget-conscious shoppers.
Can Macy’s Survive?
Macy’s leaders say they won’t disappear completely. They plan to keep 500 stores open, mostly in busy cities. But experts warn that the company needs to innovate faster. Ideas like adding more tech to stores or teaming up with influencers might help. Still, the future of Macy stores closing or staying open depends on whether shoppers return.
Lessons for Other Retailers
Macy’s story teaches a lesson: stores must change with the times. Companies that ignore online shopping or rising prices risk losing customers. Successful brands in 2025, like Target or Nike, use apps, social media and flexible pricing to stay popular.
FAQs
How many Macy stores are closing in 2025?
Macy’s will close 30 stores in 2025, adding to over 150 closures since 2020.
Why is consumer spending dropping?
Rising prices for basics (food, gas) and high debt make people spend less on extras like clothes or decor.
Will Macy’s disappear completely?
Probably not. Macy’s plans to keep 500 stores open and focus on smaller shops and online sales.
