Mall Retail Faces Another Blow as Popular Plus-Size Fashion Brand Embraces Digital Future
The decline of traditional shopping malls continues as Torrid, a leading plus-size women’s clothing retailer, announces plans to close up to 180 stores in 2025. The move reflects an accelerating trend among retailers to cut back on brick-and-mortar operations in favor of digital-first strategies.
Torrid Store Closures Announced in Q1 Earnings Call
During its Q1 earnings report, Torrid CEO Lisa Harper confirmed that a significant reduction in the company’s physical retail footprint is coming, citing shifting consumer behavior.
“Digital continues to be our customers’ preferred channel, now approaching 70% of total demand,” Harper stated.
Torrid currently operates 632 stores across North America. Analysts at William Blair expect the majority of store closures to occur in Q4, as part of the company’s plan to optimize costs and improve long-term profitability.
Why Torrid Is Closing Stores in 2025
The closures are part of a broader strategy to reduce fixed costs and reinvest in digital transformation efforts, including:
-
Improving customer acquisition and retention
-
Enhancing omnichannel experiences
-
Making low-capital investments in high-performing stores
Harper emphasized that 135 locations will be refreshed in Q3 with updates aimed at delivering fast returns while maintaining Torrid’s connection to its core customer base.
Torrid’s Financial Performance and Market Shift
Torrid’s decision comes amid financial headwinds:
-
Net sales dropped 5% year over year
-
Net income fell by more than 50%
These results highlight the ongoing struggles faced by mall-based retailers in a post-pandemic, e-commerce-driven environment.
Torrid’s Brick-and-Mortar Stores Still Have Value
Despite the closures, Torrid is not abandoning physical retail altogether. Harper reiterated the continued importance of stores as:
-
Community hubs
-
Brand-building touchpoints
-
Dressing room experiences
-
Customer service centers for online purchases
“Our passionate sales associates bring the brand to life,” said Harper. “They deliver personalized service that deepens customer connection and drives long-term loyalty.”
The Bigger Picture: Mall Retail Continues to Shrink
Torrid is the latest in a string of mall staples scaling back operations:
-
Forever 21 closed its last stores after two bankruptcy filings
-
Macy’s is shutting down 150 underperforming locations through 2026
-
Volcom, Billabong, and Quicksilver face closures under Liberated Brands’ bankruptcy plan
As retail shifts online, brands like Shein and Temu continue to dominate the low-cost fashion space once ruled by mall giants.
Final Thoughts: Torrid Embraces a Digital Future
While Torrid’s physical presence will shrink, the brand is betting on digital growth, customer loyalty, and personalized experiences to drive success. With 95% of its customers enrolled in a loyalty program, the retailer is positioning itself for a more agile, profitable future.
source : https://www.thestreet.com/retail/popular-womens-retailer-closing-30-of-its-stores