In 2025, U.S. retailers closed 8,234 stores—a 12% rise from 2024—marking a historic acceleration with nationwide impact. Analysts cite structural overbuilding, the e-commerce shift capturing about 15% of sales, inflationary costs, and heavy debt as key pressures. The 2025 retail store closures intensified job losses and commercial real estate distress, with foreclosures and bank exposure adding risk. Communities faced expanding retail deserts, pharmacy shutdowns requiring 20-plus mile trips, and malls losing anchors as chains like Dollar Tree and Macy’s cut locations. At least 30 chains filed for bankruptcy in 2025, and analysts predict further consolidation into 2026, with only large, efficient operators surviving.