Kohls stores closing? Retailer reveals what’s next for 2026

Fears around Kohls stores closing have resurfaced after a wave of shutdowns last year, but the US retailer has now clarified its plans, offering a clearer picture of what lies ahead in 2026.

No new closures planned despite earlier shutdowns

After closing 27 stores across 15 states in 2025, Kohl’s says it does not expect to shut more locations this year.

Chief Executive Officer Michael J. Bender signalled a shift in strategy, making it clear the company is stepping away from major expansion or further downsizing.

Instead, the focus is now on improving performance across its existing footprint.

The retailer currently operates around 1,150 stores, with more than 90 percent still profitable, a figure executives say supports their decision to stabilise rather than scale back further.

Sales dip raises questions, but strategy holds

The update comes as Kohl’s continues to face pressure from declining sales.

Its latest earnings report showed fourth-quarter net sales fell 3.9 percent, while comparable sales dropped 2.8 percent. Over the full fiscal year, net sales declined 4.0 percent, with comparable sales down 3.1 percent.

Despite the slowdown, company leadership insists the business is in a stronger position than it was a year ago, following efforts to reset operations and improve efficiency.

For now, the message is cautious but clear: the era of widespread closures may be over, but the focus has shifted to making existing stores work harder.

As concerns around Kohls stores closing continue to trend, the retailer’s latest update suggests a pivot toward stability rather than retreat, even as challenges remain.