Based on recent bankruptcy filings, corporate restructuring announcements, and ongoing "fleet optimization" plans, here are six major retail chains closing locations in Wyoming this year.
1. Joann (Jo-Ann Fabrics)
This is the most significant loss for Wyoming’s crafting community. The fabric and craft giant has struggled financially for years, and the impact has finally hit home.
Reports confirmed that the company placed its Cheyenne and Rock Springs locations on the closure list. For many residents, this was the primary destination for sewing supplies and seasonal decor. With these closures, the chain effectively ends its physical operations in the state, leaving Wyoming crafters to rely on online orders or smaller local shops.
2. Family Dollar
Dollar Tree, the parent company of Family Dollar, is in the middle of a massive closure of nearly 1,000 stores nationwide. In Wyoming, where Family Dollar often serves as a vital general store for rural towns, the impact is being watched closely.
The company has identified underperforming locations for closure, specifically targeting stores hurt by inflation and shipping costs. Locations in the Star Valley area (Afton/Thayne) and outskirts of Casper have been part of regional discussions regarding lease renewals. If your local store has been struggling with inventory or staffing, it may be next on the list as the company finalizes its cuts this year.
3. Rue21
The teen apparel retailer, a staple in malls across the country, has closed its doors for good. After filing for bankruptcy, the company announced it would shutter all locations nationwide.
This affects the Wyoming locations that served as go-to spots for affordable fashion, including the store at Frontier Mall in Cheyenne. The "going out of business" sales have concluded, and the storefronts are now dark, leaving another gap in the state's limited mall landscape.
4. Big Lots
The discount furniture and pantry retailer filed for bankruptcy protection and has been aggressively shedding stores to survive. Wyoming has been swept up in these corrections.
As the company attempts to stabilize its finances, its remaining footprint in the Mountain West is vulnerable. Shoppers in Cheyenne and Casper should be aware that the chain is actively reviewing leases. If a "Store Closing" banner appears, expect it to move quickly to a final liquidation sale.
5. Advance Auto Parts
The auto parts giant is pumping the brakes. Advance Auto Parts announced a massive restructuring plan to shutter over 700 locations nationwide to stabilize its finances.
Wyoming is seeing the impact as the company consolidates its footprint. The strategy involves focusing on its "Pro" business (selling to mechanics) rather than retail DIY stores. This means smaller, redundant locations in the state could be consolidated into nearby hubs. If you have a warranty on a car battery or part, you should check if your local store is remaining open.
6. Walgreens
The pharmacy giant is in the midst of closing roughly 1,200 stores nationwide to cut costs. While Wyoming doesn't have the density of major cities, the "optimization" plan is active here.
Walgreens is focusing on closing locations that are not profitable enough to sustain rising labor and shipping costs. The company plans to complete these closures by 2026. For residents in Cheyenne or Laramie, where pharmacy options are already concentrated, losing a location could mean longer lines at the remaining drive-thrus.