Ross dress for less shuts down iconic stores in Honolulu

In Honolulu, Hawaii, Ross Dress for Less closed two of its retail locations on January 10, 2025. The affected stores were situated at Fort Street Mall and on Ke'eaumoku Street. This unexpected closure left many local shoppers in disbelief, especially those who frequented the stores regularly for their convenient shopping options. One resident expressed shock, stating their reliance on the store for various items. Shortly after the announcement, employees from the Ke'eaumoku Street and Fort Street Mall locations were relocated to other Ross stores, signifying a shift in the company’s operational strategy. The closure has sparked conversations around the broader trends in retail and the increasing rate of store closures across the country. Retail Merchants of Hawaii’s President Tina Yamaki mentioned that brand consolidation has become more commonplace in the industry, stressing that store performance is a crucial factor in these decisions. While the specific reasons for the Honolulu closures were not disclosed by Ross, it is clear that the company is re-evaluating its presence in certain markets as it aims to focus resources on its more profitable locations. Despite the recent closures, Ross still maintains a significant presence in Hawaii, with 15 stores continuing to operate throughout the state. This reflects the company's ongoing strategy to enhance its overall business health. Recently, Ross reported a net income of $489 million in the 13-week period ending November 2, 2024. CEO Barbara Rentler acknowledged the company’s disappointment over its third quarter sales results, indicating a slowdown in business compared to earlier gains in 2024. Moving forward, Rentler expressed confidence in the company’s ability to deliver value and achieve profitable growth. The larger landscape for retailers remains challenging, as several brands have also announced closures due to underperformance. For instance, Kohl’s is set to close 27 locations across 14 states as part of its own strategic recalibration. The closure of these stores ties into a broader narrative of consumer behavior and retail health, illustrating that as some categories struggle, others are reevaluating their strategies to ensure long-term viability. The closures in Honolulu might hint at a shift within Ross’s strategy as they adjust to new market realities and changing consumer demands.