DELAWARE - From the Christiana Mall to the beaches, the national wave of store closures will reshape shopping habits across the First State this year. Here’s what you need to know.
DELAWARE - From the Christiana Mall to the beaches, the national wave of store closures will reshape shopping habits across the First State this year. Here’s what you need to know.The retail landscape across Delaware is facing another seismic shift as 2026 begins. Following a turbulent holiday season, several major national chains have confirmed plans to shutter nearly 300 locations combined nationwide this year, a move that will inevitably impact communities from Wilmington down to the Maryland line.
As corporate giants pivot toward e-commerce and trim "underperforming" locations, Delaware shoppers—famous for taking advantage of tax-free shopping—need to prepare for changes at their local hubs.
Here is a breakdown of the major players involved in this 2026 shakeup and what it means for the First State.
The Decline of the Mall Anchor
Perhaps the most significant impact for Delawareans is the ongoing retreat of department stores. Macy’s has confirmed it is moving forward with plans to close approximately 150 "non-productive" locations nationwide over the next few years, with a significant chunk targeted for 2026.
While the Christiana Mall remains a regional powerhouse likely to survive the cuts, older retail centers in Dover or northern New Castle County could be on high alert. When an anchor store leaves a mall, it often creates a domino effect, reducing foot traffic for smaller tenants and leaving massive vacancies that are difficult to fill.
Dining and Daily Essentials taking a Hit
It isn't just department stores feeling the pinch. The closure wave is hitting daily convenience spots as well.
- Wendy’s: The fast-food giant announced plans to close up to 300 older, underperforming locations in 2026 to focus on modernizing remaining stores and boosting digital sales. With Wendy's having a significant footprint along the Route 13 and Route 1 corridors, local franchisees operating older buildings are most at risk.
- Walgreens: Continuing its "footprint optimization" program, Walgreens is expected to close more locations in 2026. In many Delaware towns, Walgreens serves as a primary pharmacy; closures here often force residents to travel further or switch providers entirely.
What This Means for Delaware Residents
The immediate impact of these closures is twofold: job losses in local communities and a change in daily convenience. However, there is a temporary silver lining for bargain hunters.
As these stores prepare to shutter, Delaware shoppers can expect aggressive liquidation sales beginning in Q1 2026. Keep an eye on your local branch of these major chains for "Store Closing" signage, as they will need to clear inventory quickly.
Residents in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties should monitor local news closely in the coming weeks as individual store closing announcements are made public.
