3 Retail Giants Leaving Connecticut in May 2026

Here is what you need to know about the major brands closing doors in Connecticut this May, and how these changes could impact your shopping options and access to familiar brands in the state.

1. Eddie Bauer

Outdoor apparel legend Eddie Bauer is expected to complete its exit from Connecticut physical storefronts by late May. After the company's operating entity was unable to secure a buyer during its Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings earlier this year, the brand moved into full liquidation.

• The Impact: Connecticut is losing its three remaining brick-and-mortar locations, including the popular outpost at the Danbury Fair Mall, which may affect local shopping habits and community spaces.
• What's Next: Fans of the brand will have to shift their shopping entirely online, as the brand transitions to a digital-only model under new licensing management.

2. Francesca's

The boutique-style retailer Francesca's is shuttering all remaining locations nationwide after failing to restructure its debt following a February bankruptcy filing. The chain, known for its curated apparel and gifts, had a strong presence in Connecticut's premier shopping centers.

• The Impact: At least six Connecticut locations are slated to close by the end of May. This includes storefronts at:
  • Westfarms Mall (Farmington/West Hartford)
  • The Shops at Buckland Hills (Manchester)
  • Clinton Premium Outlets (Clinton)
• The Vibe: Closing sales have already begun, with deep discounts on jewelry and seasonal clothing as the company prepares to hand back the keys to mall landlords.

3. Macy's

While Macy's is not leaving the state entirely, May 2026 marks the final deadline for several "underperforming" locations identified in the company's massive restructuring plan. To pivot toward luxury and smaller-format stores, the retail giant is finishing the liquidation of several legacy department stores.

• The Impact: As part of its "A Bold New Chapter" strategy, Macy's is focusing on its "go-forward" locations, such as those in Danbury and Westfarms. However, the closure of fulfillment centers and specific mall anchors—such as the location at the Crystal Mall in Waterford—is expected to be finalized this month.

• The Context: These closures coincide with the redevelopment of several Connecticut malls into mixed-use housing and office spaces, offering new opportunities for community growth and revitalization, as seen in the recent plans for the Enfield Square and Crystal Malls.

  
  
  

Why are these retail closures happening now? The May 2026 exodus is largely due to the expiration of multi-year leases and the major restructuring in the luxury and department store sectors earlier this year, which has reshaped the retail landscape in Connecticut.

The May 2026 exodus is largely attributed to the expiration of multi-year leases and the fallout from major restructuring across the luxury and department store sectors earlier this year.

For Connecticut shoppers, these closures mean more than just empty storefronts; they could lead to job losses and reduced local tax revenue, affecting community services. Many of these vacant spaces are already being scouted for conversion into medical offices, luxury apartments, or 'eatertainment' venues like indoor sports complexes, which may create new opportunities but also alter the local economic landscape.