Companies Closing Locations Through 2026

This article was originally published at Lizanest.com

Retailers across the U.S. are entering another major period of contraction as shifting consumer behavior, rising operating costs, and long-term structural changes continue to reshape brick-and-mortar commerce. From big-box chains and grocery stores to restaurants, apparel brands, and specialty retailers, hundreds of locations are slated to close through 2026. While some companies are trimming underperforming stores to strengthen profitability, others are downsizing after bankruptcies or strategic pivots toward e-commerce. Together, these closures offer a snapshot of how the retail landscape is evolving—and which brands are struggling to adapt.

#1. Amazon Fresh
How Many Stores Closing: ~57
Current Value of the Business: ~$2.25 trillion*

Amazon is shutting down all 57 of its Amazon Fresh grocery stores in the United States in early 2026, along with several Amazon Go locations. The closures follow years of experimentation with physical retail as the company reassesses its brick-and-mortar grocery strategy.

The company says the decision reflects underperformance and a renewed focus on more successful formats, including Whole Foods Market and online grocery delivery. Despite advanced cashier-less technology, Amazon Fresh struggled to compete with established grocery chains and generate consistent profitability.

#2: Starbucks
How Many Stores Closing: ~90
Current Value of the Business: ~$104.8 billion*

Starbucks has announced plans to close approximately 90 underperforming locations worldwide as part of a broader effort to streamline operations through 2026. The closures primarily affect slower-growth markets and overlapping locations, as the company works to rebalance its global store footprint.

Company leadership says the move is intended to improve efficiency and refocus resources on higher-performing stores, digital ordering, and drive-thru formats. Starbucks continues to invest heavily in mobile ordering, loyalty programs, and international expansion, even as it trims parts of its physical retail presence.

#3: Walgreens
How Many Stores Closing: ~350
Current Value of the Business: ~$10.4 billion*

Walgreens plans to close roughly 350 stores across the United States as part of an ongoing effort to cut costs and stabilize operations. The closures follow years of declining foot traffic, reimbursement pressure in pharmacy services, and increased competition from online and big-box retailers.

The company has said many of the affected locations are underperforming or located too close to other Walgreens stores. By reducing its physical footprint, Walgreens aims to improve profitability, streamline operations, and focus on healthcare services, digital pharmacy offerings, and higher-performing retail locations.

#4: 7-Eleven
How Many Stores Closing: ~444
Current Value of the Business: ~$33.4 billion*

7-Eleven has announced plans to close roughly 444 underperforming stores, primarily in North America, as part of a larger effort to optimize its global convenience store portfolio. The closures follow a broad review of store performance amid changing consumer habits and rising operating costs.

Parent company Seven & i Holdings says the move is designed to strengthen long-term profitability and focus investment on higher-traffic locations, food innovation, and digital initiatives. Despite the closures, 7-Eleven continues expanding in select international markets and modernizing many remaining U.S. stores.