News Summary
JOANN Fabric and Crafts is set to close 500 stores across the U.S., including five locations in Louisiana. The closures stem from a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing and have left customers feeling uncertain about their crafting future. Only one store will remain operational in Louisiana, raising concerns among local crafters about access to supplies. JOANN’s strategic restructuring aims at financial stability, but the crafting community is bracing for significant changes.
JOANN Fabric and Crafts to Bid Farewell to 500 Stores, Including Multiple Locations in Louisiana
In a wave of changes rippling through the crafting world, JOANN Fabric and Crafts is set to close up to 500 stores across the United States, and this includes five beloved locations in Louisiana. The company’s decision to shutter these stores has left many loyal customers and crafters feeling a mix of sadness and uncertainty, especially those who have frequented these spots for years.
Impact on Local Crafters
For many, JOANN has been a go-to destination for all things fabric and crafting. One such longtime shopper is historical costume designer Gretchen Byers, who has fond memories of shopping at JOANN since her childhood days. The closure of the Metairie store, alongside others in the metro area will undoubtedly leave a void in the crafting community. The impending loss is palpable, especially for those who have built relationships with the staff over the years as they browsed through aisles filled with vibrant fabrics and craft supplies.
What’s Behind the Closures?
Back in January 2025, JOANN took a significant step and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This challenging move has led to the company’s announcement of a strategic restructuring that involves closing stores as a means to regain financial stability. While emotions are running high among customers and employees alike, JOANN executives have described the closure decision as difficult yet necessary for “right-sizing” the company after a thorough performance analysis.
What’s Left in Louisiana?
After the wave of closures, only one JOANN store will remain operational in Louisiana, located in Baton Rouge. This has raised concerns among local crafters, especially with the Shreveport location on Youree Drive and other stores in Alexandria, Slidell, Gretna, and Metairie all slated for permanent closure. Residents are left wondering how they’ll access their favorite crafting goods without these convenient locations.
Future of Remaining Stores
While JOANN has not specified exact dates for when stores will begin to close their doors, they have mentioned that the process could begin in the coming months. Meanwhile, stores located in Baton Rouge and Lafayette have escaped the initial list of closures, though it’s still uncertain whether they will also be affected later on. JOANN is seeking court approval to proceed with its closure plan, indicating that more changes could lie ahead.
Retail Landscape and Customer Sentiment
The retail climate is shifting, with many analysts predicting an ongoing trend of brick-and-mortar store closures fueled by inflation and growing consumer preference for online shopping. In response to the turmoil, JOANN is currently running sales, offering discounts of up to 70% for its loyal customers. However, indications suggest that “going out of business” sales may begin as early as February 15, potentially further depleting the inventory available to dedicated crafters.
The Heart of the Issue
As customers digest this news, many have shared their thoughts on what these closures mean for their crafting journeys. Local artist Whitney Tate expressed disappointment regarding the convenience that JOANN stores provided and lamented the loss of easy access to art supplies, which play an essential role in fueling creativity. It’s clear that the closures will not only impact the shopping habits of everyday crafters but also the flourishing artistic community reliant on these resources.
A Crafting Community in Transition
The news surrounding JOANN’s closures highlights just how quickly things can change in the retail landscape. As crafters brace for what’s ahead, it remains to be seen how the community will adapt to these challenges. Let’s hold on to those happy crafting memories while also looking forward to new opportunities as the local crafting scene continues to evolve.
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