Joann May Close Redlands Store Amid Mass Closures

BANNING, CA — Crafts retailer Joann announced Wednesday that it would close hundreds of stores nationwide, with California and several other states taking a heavy hit with closures.

Currently, there are several Joann Fabric and Crafts stores throughout the Inland Empire, including one in Redlands at 1625 W Lugonia Ave.
The 81-year-old Ohio-based retailer has identified the Redlands store as a location that could immediately close, according to court documents.

The company did not specify exactly which stores it would close, but said it would close 500 of its 800 stores in the coming months.

The upcoming closures are to "maximize the value of the business" as the company navigates the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process, the corporation wrote in a statement.

"This was a very difficult decision to make, given the major impact we know it will have on our Team Members, our customers and all of the communities we serve," the statement reads.

The company is currently deciding which stores it will close. Across Riverside County, Joann locations are currently open in Temecula, Riverside, Rancho Mirage, Redlands and beyond.

Court filings reveal stores are closing in all 50 states. California, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania and Washington will be taking on the largest amount of closures.

"Right-sizing our store footprint is a critical part of our efforts to ensure the best path forward for JOANN," the company said in a statement.

Last March, the retailer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and kept all of its stores open. At that time, the company said it had acquired $132 million in new funding which it planned to use to reduce its debt by approximately $505 million.

Sales at Joann had slumped after a jump during the pandemic when Americans were isolated in their homes and spent more money on sewing and craft supplies. Due to the subsequent inflation, many people had to cut back on their discretionary spending.

The news comes as other major retailers have announced closures as well, with Kohl's notably among those last month.

Patch editor Chris Rhatigan contributed reporting.