Joann Fabric and Craft, a longtime staple for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts, has announced it will permanently close all its store locations across the United States by the end of May. The move comes after the company filed for bankruptcy in January—its second such filing in less than a year—highlighting ongoing financial challenges for the craft supply chain.
The first wave of closures will begin this week, impacting 255 stores nationwide. These locations have already launched going-out-of-business sales as part of the liquidation process. The remaining 500-plus stores are expected to close their doors for good next month, effectively ending Joann’s physical retail presence after decades in operation.
Bankruptcy Marks Final Chapter for the Retailer
The closures follow Joann Fabric and Craft’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in January 2025, which marked the company’s second bankruptcy within an eleven-month span. The financial restructuring efforts proved insufficient to keep the company afloat amid declining sales, shifting consumer behavior, and intensified competition from e-commerce platforms and big-box retailers.
Originally known for its wide array of fabrics, yarns, sewing supplies, and seasonal decor, Joann has been a go-to destination for crafters, quilters, and small business owners. Despite attempts to modernize and expand its digital footprint, the company continued to struggle with mounting debt and reduced foot traffic in stores—pressures that were further amplified by broader challenges in the retail sector.
Impact on Customers and Communities
With all of Joann Fabric and Craft’s physical stores set to close by the end of May, the shutdown marks a significant shift in the crafting retail landscape. The closures not only affect loyal customers who relied on Joann’s in-store inventory and support, but also represent job losses across hundreds of communities nationwide.
The going-out-of-business sales underway are expected to continue through the final days of operation, offering significant discounts as stores clear out inventory. While the company has yet to clarify the future of its online presence or digital operations, the full-scale store closures signal a major contraction in Joann’s role within the retail ecosystem.
As the craft supply giant prepares to exit the brick-and-mortar market, consumers and small businesses alike will need to turn to alternative retailers and digital platforms to source materials and supplies once readily available at their neighborhood Joann store.
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