VERMONT - The retail landscape in the Green Mountain State is shifting this season as several national apparel brands begin their final stages of liquidation. While Vermont has historically favored smaller, local boutiques, its major shopping centers in South Burlington and Williston are feeling the impact of a nationwide wave of corporate restructurings and liquidations.
Here are three iconic clothing retailers shuttering Vermont locations this spring.
1. Eddie Bauer (Manchester)
In a major blow to Vermont's outdoor recreation community, the legendary Eddie Bauer is officially exiting the brick-and-mortar market. After the operator of the brand's physical stores failed to find a buyer during bankruptcy proceedings, the decision was made to shift the century-old brand to a digital-only model.
The primary casualty in Vermont is the popular Manchester Designer Outlets location. Known for serving both locals and the heavy tourist traffic of the Green Mountains, the store is in its final days of inventory liquidation. Doors are expected to lock for the last time by late May 2026, marking the end of the brand's physical presence in one of Vermont's premier shopping districts.
2. Francesca's (South Burlington)
The boutique staple Francesca's is reaching the end of the road for its physical storefronts. Following a second bankruptcy filing and a sudden loss of investor funding earlier this spring, the chain is liquidating all 457 of its boutiques nationwide.
Vermont shoppers are saying goodbye to the neighborhood boutique located at the University Mall in South Burlington. "Going Out of Business" signs have been a fixture throughout the spring, with discounts reaching 50% or more. The location is expected to be fully vacated by mid-May 2026 as the brand navigates an uncertain future.
3. Rue21 (All Remaining Locations)
In one of the most significant hits to teen fashion this year, the Pennsylvania-based Rue21 is liquidating its entire store fleet after filing for its third and final bankruptcy. Unlike previous attempts to reorganize, the brand failed to find a buyer to keep its physical doors open, leading to a total wind-down of its North American operations.
While the brand had already reduced its footprint in the state over the last several years, the final remaining "store closing" sales are wrapping up this spring at regional shopping hubs. Most inventory is expected to be cleared by late May 2026, marking the brand's total exit from the Vermont market.
The Future of Vermont's Retail Spaces
The departure of these clothing icons leaves notable vacancies in Vermont's major commercial centers. However, developers in Burlington and Manchester are already looking ahead. Many of these spaces are being scouted for "experiential" and community-focused tenants—ranging from local artisan collectives and medical offices to fitness centers—as Vermont's retail hubs adapt to a digital-first economy and a renewed focus on local services.
