This go-to store won’t be around much longer—what to know

Changes are unfolding for a go-to destination in the retail world, and they might be bigger than you think.

For more than 80 years, this store has been a staple for DIYers, fabric lovers, and creative minds, offering everything from fabric and sewing supplies to seasonal decorations and home crafts.—but now, its future is uncertain.

What’s really happening, and what does it mean for shoppers?



Joann, the beloved fabric and craft retailer, is preparing to close all of its stores nationwide.

After years of navigating financial struggles, the company is officially shutting its doors following a major takeover—a move that marks the end of an era for crafters everywhere.


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All Joann stores are closing. Image source: Myrlene NUMA / Unsplash


Joann’s journey has been filled with ups and downs, but this latest development is its most drastic yet.

The retailer previously announced plans to close around 500 locations, but now, the shutdown is even more significant—every remaining store is set to close after the company was auctioned off following its second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in a year.

The winning bidders—retail liquidator GA Group and Joann’s term lenders—now control the company’s future.

Joann, which is headquartered in Hudson, Ohio, has confirmed that all stores will close permanently after a final round of going-out-of-business sales.

The decision, however, is still pending final approval from the US Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.



As news of the closures spread, Joann’s leadership addressed customers and employees, acknowledging the difficult decision and the efforts made to keep the business afloat.

In a public statement, company representatives expressed gratitude to the team members and loyal shoppers who have supported the brand for decades.

“JOANN leadership, our Board, advisors and legal partners made every possible effort to pursue a more favorable outcome that would keep the company in business," the company statement reads. "We are committed to working constructively with the winning bidder to ensure an orderly wind-down of operations that minimizes the impact on all our stakeholders."

“We deeply appreciate our dedicated Team Members, our customers and communities across the nation for their unwavering support for more than 80 years," the statement continues.


Source: KHOU 11 / YouTube​

The retailer’s new ownership group, GA Group, has a long-standing connection with Joann—having played a role in its expansion during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Now, GA Group’s CEO, Scott Carpenter, has outlined plans for a “multimillion-dollar retention program” designed to help Joann’s 19,000 employees transition into new roles.

As part of this initiative, the company will organize job fairs and allow staff time off for interviews, ensuring the closure process is handled with professionalism and support.



Joann’s going-out-of-business sales officially began on February 15 and are expected to continue for several months.

However, customers should note that these discounts only apply to inventory currently available in stores, meaning once supplies are gone, they won’t be restocked.

While specific discount details aren’t available online, reports from various locations indicate:
  • Base discounts of 10-20% on most in-store merchandise
  • Deeper markdowns of up to 75% on seasonal and clearance items
Additionally, customers should be aware of the following key changes:
  • Gift cards are no longer accepted
  • Discounts for teachers, military personnel, healthcare workers, and Girl Scouts are temporarily paused
  • Returns will no longer be accepted at closing stores


Joann’s closure marks a major turning point for crafters and small business owners who have long relied on the retailer for supplies and inspiration.

With every store set to close, many shoppers are left wondering where they’ll turn for their favorite fabrics, seasonal decor, and crafting essentials.

While the going-out-of-business sales offer a final chance to stock up, the end of Joann signals a shift in the crafting industry—one that will leave a lasting impact on its loyal community.

To know more about their huge blowout, read here about the major markdowns and final deals before the doors close for good!
Key Takeaways
  • Joann, the popular fabric and craft retailer, is closing all stores nationwide following a bankruptcy auction.
  • After filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy twice in one year, Joann’s assets were sold to retail liquidator GA Group and its term lenders.
  • Going-out-of-business sales began in February, with discounts ranging from 10% to 75%.
  • GA Group has promised a multimillion-dollar retention program to help Joann’s 19,000 employees transition into new jobs.
Will you be visiting one last time to stock up on crafting essentials? Share your thoughts, favorite Joann memories, and how this change affects you in the comments below.

Also read: Is your favorite store closing? The shocking forecast of 15,000 retail closures by 2025
 

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