Forever 21, the popular fast-fashion retailer, is shutting down its 354 remaining US locations due to bankruptcy for a second time. The company filed for Chapter 11 on Sunday and plans to liquidate all assets. This move comes as a result of rising costs and increased competition from abroad making its current business model unsustainable.
Affected stores include shops in major cities like New York City, Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Yonkers. Customers are advised to use any remaining store credit or gift cards by April 15, 2025, as sales are now final and no returns or exchanges will be accepted.
Industry analysts attribute Forever 21’s struggles to its rapid expansion in the past and inability to keep up with fast-fashion trends and online competition. The brand previously filed for bankruptcy in 2019 and had over 800 locations at its peak. Other national brands have also faced financial difficulties, including Advance Auto Parts, Joann fabrics, Big Lots, TGI Fridays, and Denny’s.
The closure of Forever 21 stores will mark the end of an era for fans of the fast-fashion retailer. As customers bid farewell to their favorite brand, they can still reach out to Forever 21’s customer service department with questions about products, warranties, or rewards.
Source: https://www.syracuse.com/business/2025/03/clothing-chain-to-close-all-stores-including-ny-locations-see-gift-card-deadline.html