Popular clothing chain closing 180 stores — Bay Area locations could be among them
Torrid, a popular fashion retailer specializing in plus-size apparel, announced plans to shutter up to 180 stores nationwide before the end of the year, including locations across the Bay Area, as the company shifts focus toward its digital operations following a drop in sales.
The decision comes as the California-based company reported a 4.9% year-over-year decline in net sales for the first quarter of 2025, down to $266 million from $279.8 million in the same period last year. Gross profit margins also fell, from 41.3% to 38.1%.
'We're accelerating our transformation to a more digitally led business, which includes optimizing our retail footprint,' said Lisa Harper, CEO of Torrid, in a statement. 'We now plan to close up to 180 underperforming stores this year — allowing us to reduce fixed costs and reinvest in areas that drive long-term growth, including customer acquisition and omnichannel enhancements.'
It did not list specific locations targeted for closure.
Founded in 2001, Torrid gained prominence in the 2010s through endorsements and collaborations with celebrities like Ashley Graham, Rebel Wilson and Gabourey Sidibe.
The company currently operates 632 stores, down from 658 last May.
Bay Area stores affected by the restructuring may include locations in Santa Rosa, Novato, Hayward, San Jose, Pleasant Hill and several others.
Despite the downturn, Harper expressed confidence in the brand's trajectory.
'We remain in a strong financial position and are executing with clarity and focus,' she said. 'I'm incredibly proud of our team's commitment to delivering innovative product, deepening customer connections, and building a more agile, resilient business for the future.'
Digital sales now make up nearly 70% of Torrid's total demand, according to the report, prompting the company's strategy to meet customers where they shop most.
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