Kohl’s has announced it will close 27 underperforming stores across 13 states by April, a move aimed at improving profitability.

The closures represent a small fraction of its 1,150 locations nationwide, and the company emphasized that most stores remain strong performers.

The decision comes during a leadership transition. Outgoing CEO Tom Kingsbury will step down, with Michaels

CEO Ashley Buchanan set to take over. Kingsbury will remain as an advisor until May. Founded in 1962,

Kohl’s remains a major department store chain, offering apparel, footwear, accessories, beauty products, and home goods.

The retailer has struggled in recent years with shifting consumer habits and fierce competition from e-commerce,

contributing to a nearly 40% stock drop in the past six months. In response, Kohl’s is updating store layouts, broadening product offerings,

boosting online services, and rolling out sustainability and corporate responsibility initiatives as part of its long-term strategy.

Among the stores set to close are: Spanish Fort, AL; Little Rock, AR; San Rafael and Mountain View, CA;

Aurora, CO; Duluth, GA; Plainfield, IL; Stoughton, MA; Forest Park (Cincinnati), OH; North Dallas, TX; and Herndon, VA.

These closures reflect Kohl’s effort to streamline operations and concentrate on its most

profitable locations while navigating a challenging retail environment.