Once Popular Retailer in Maine Planning to Close All Stores

This retailer, once a staple in malls across America—including right here in Maine—has announced plans to close all locations.

Usually, when we hear about bankruptcy and nationwide closings, it's a business grabbing headlines. But this one, while still unfortunate, feels a bit more surprising—it’s a place that might’ve quietly slipped off our radar until now.

So, given all of that, which retailer that was once a favorite here in our Pine Tree State has announced full nationwide closures?

Forever 21 has filed for bankruptcy protection for the second time and plans to close its U.S. stores as mall traffic drops and online competitors grow.

Forever 21 will wind down U.S. operations while exploring options to partner with others or sell its assets.

While U.S. stores will hold liquidation sales, international locations and websites will continue operating as usual because they are run by separate licensees and are not part of the bankruptcy filing.

Get our free mobile app

Forever 21 is closing its U.S. stores because they’re too large and located in malls with low foot traffic, a model that no longer fits today’s shopping habits.

The company has struggled in recent years due to a weak clothing market and tough competition from cheaper online retailers.

Well, there you have it—Forever 21, which at one point had several locations in Maine, has filed for bankruptcy for a second time and plans to liquidate its inventory.

What are your thoughts on this news from Forever 21? We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app.

Read More: New Biz: Wellness and Fitness Facility Opening in Bangor Soon