Surf-inspired clothing brands Quiksilver, Billabong, and Volcom are permanently closing all their US stores as their operator Liberated Brands files for bankruptcy. Over 100 locations will shut down in the coming weeks due to financial struggles attributed to fast-fashion rivals and economic factors.
Liberated Brands’ CEO Todd Hymel blames a “dramatic rise in interest rates, persistent inflation, and supply chain delays” on the company’s financial struggles. He also points to fast-fashion rivals that can quickly adapt to micro-trends, putting pressure on brick-and-mortar companies.
Despite the closures, Quiksilver, Billabong, and Volcom will continue to operate under a new license holder, Authentic Brands Groups. The brands’ clothing lines will be sold through specialty retailers, department stores, and online platforms.
The closures are part of a growing trend of retailers shutting down locations this year, with over 15,000 stores expected to close in 2025, according to Coresight Research.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/06/business/billabong-volcom-store-closures/index.html