Say Goodbye to This Popular Clothing Chain: If you’ve ever relied on Torrid for stylish plus-size fashion—whether it’s office wear, everyday casuals, or that perfect night-out outfit—you may want to sit down for this one. Torrid, one of the most beloved plus-size retailers in America, has officially announced plans to close 180 of its brick-and-mortar stores in 2025. This dramatic move comes amid ongoing challenges in the U.S. retail sector, declining in-store traffic, and a growing shift to online shopping. For many longtime shoppers, it feels like the end of an era. But for Torrid, it’s part of a bigger plan to survive—and thrive—in a digital-first future.
Say Goodbye to This Popular Clothing Chain
Torrid’s decision to close 180 stores might sound like a goodbye, but it’s really a pivot toward the future. With shoppers demanding speed, convenience, and digital tools, the retail landscape is shifting fast—and Torrid is choosing to change before it’s forced to. While the closures may be painful for loyal customers and employees, they’re part of a strategy that’s designed to keep Torrid relevant and profitable in a fiercely competitive market. The message is simple: the mall may be fading, but the brand is not.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Retailer Name | Torrid |
| Closures Announced | 180 U.S. stores |
| Current Store Count | 632 (from 658 in 2024) |
| Main Reason | Underperforming physical locations & digital sales growth |
| Q1 2025 Revenue | $266 million (down 4.9% YoY) |
| Gross Margin 2025 | 38.1% (from 41.3% in 2024) |
| Digital Sales | Over 70% of total revenue |
| Strategic Focus | Digital optimization, cost cutting, e-commerce enhancement |
| CEO Statement | “We’re investing where our customers are—online.” – Lisa Harper |
| Official Website | www.torrid.com |
What’s Driving the Store Closures?
Declining Sales in Physical Locations
Like many retailers in the post-pandemic economy, Torrid is seeing a sharp decline in foot traffic at malls and shopping centers. In the first quarter of 2025, the company reported $266 million in revenue, down from $279.8 million the year prior—a 4.9% drop.
What’s more, gross margins dropped from 41.3% to 38.1%, signaling lower profitability per item sold. When stores aren’t pulling their weight financially, companies look for ways to cut the fat.
E-Commerce Is Leading the Way
Online shopping isn’t just a trend—it’s the new standard. Nearly 70% of Torrid’s total demand now comes from digital channels, a staggering statistic that reflects broader changes in how American consumers shop.
Rather than fight the trend, Torrid is doubling down on it. The closures allow the company to redirect funds toward online infrastructure, faster delivery systems, loyalty tech, and customer personalization tools.
What Stores Are Being Shut Down?
While Torrid has not published a full list of affected stores, the closures are likely to affect low-traffic and underperforming locations—particularly in smaller malls and suburban outlets. Customers can use the Torrid Store Locator tool at www.torrid.com/store-locator to check on the status of their nearest store. Industry insiders expect updates to roll out in batches through the end of the year.
What Does This Mean for You, the Shopper?
Online Shoppers Win Big
If you’re already an online shopper, not much changes—in fact, things might get better. Expect:
- Faster shipping times
- Expanded product availability
- Smarter product recommendations
- Stronger rewards programs
Torrid is also rolling out new digital features like AI-powered size suggestions, virtual fitting rooms, and early-access sales for app users.
In-Person Fans Take a Hit
On the other hand, if you love trying things on in-store, grabbing clearance rack deals, or chatting with a friendly associate who knows your style, the closures are a letdown. Some cities may be left without a single Torrid location within reasonable driving distance.
What’s the Strategy Behind This?
Cost Optimization
Torrid is trimming its operational footprint to reduce fixed costs—rent, staff wages, insurance, utilities—all of which take a huge bite out of profit margins.
Focus on High-Performance Areas
The remaining stores are expected to be in key metropolitan and high-revenue areas, serving as regional hubs and brand ambassadors. In some markets, Torrid is testing “showroom stores”, where customers browse styles but make purchases through the app.
Bigger Bets on Technology
Instead of just reacting to market changes, Torrid is proactively building a scalable e-commerce engine—one that can support international expansion, better customer data collection, and real-time supply chain logistics.
Impact on Employees
The closure of 180 stores naturally leads to concern about jobs. Though the company has not released official layoff numbers, each store employs an average of 10 to 15 people—meaning up to 2,500 jobs could be impacted.
Torrid has indicated that eligible employees will receive severance, and some may be offered transfers to remaining stores or corporate roles. Workers are encouraged to explore:
- Indeed.com’s Retail Job Board
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Workforce retraining programs via local state labor departments
What Customers Are Saying?
Customer sentiment is mixed, with some disappointed and others unsurprised:
“I’ve been going to Torrid since college. I don’t always shop there, but it was nice to walk in and grab a dress without worrying about sizing. I’ll miss that,” said Amanda L., a customer in Kansas City.
“I only shop online anyway, but I get why some folks are upset. Shopping for plus-size clothes is personal—it’s about how it fits in real life,” noted Olivia R., a plus-size style influencer on Instagram.
Torrid vs. the Competition: A Quick Comparison
| Brand | Store Count | Online Experience | Plus-Size Range | Loyalty Rewards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Torrid | 632 (shrinking) | Excellent | Sizes 10–30 | Torrid Insider |
| Lane Bryant | 400+ | Strong | Sizes 10–28 | Lane Rewards |
| Eloquii | Online only | Premium | Sizes 14–28 | Style Circle |
| ASOS Curve | Online only | Global reach | Sizes 12–28 | ASOS Premier |
Torrid still stands out with inclusive sizing and brand familiarity, but the digital playing field is more crowded than ever.
Industry Context: Why So Many Retailers Are Closing Stores
Torrid isn’t alone. According to UBS, the U.S. could see up to 45,000 retail store closures by 2028, especially among apparel chains. Reasons include:
- Rising rent and wage costs
- Slowing mall traffic
- Changing consumer expectations
- The rise of direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands
Macy’s, JCPenney, Express, and even Nike have all announced significant cutbacks to their physical footprints in the last two years.
Say Goodbye to This Popular Clothing Chain: How to Prepare If Your Store Closes
Here are some smart steps:
- Sign up for Torrid Insider – Earn rewards and get access to online-only deals.
- Use Torrid’s Mobile App – It’s faster, and often offers exclusive in-app sales.
- Watch for Closing Sales – Clearance events often accompany store closures.
- Bookmark Return Policy – Know your rights before buying: Torrid’s Returns Page
What’s Next for Torrid in 2026 and Beyond?
Retail analysts say this won’t be the end of Torrid’s evolution. In 2026, expect:
- More showroom or pop-up stores
- Expansion of private label lines
- New international shipping options
- Greater investment in mobile commerce
Retailers who adapt early to the new digital normal are more likely to survive—and even grow.
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