Kroger and 8 Other Major Stores That Are Closing in July

Retail store closures are nothing new for the average shopper, but they still surprise us when they impact the brands we trust. In July 2026, several big chains say they'll continue with downsizing plans as they adapt to changing consumer spending, increased costs, and more.

Even chains that once seemed stalwart enough to withstand economic downturns are scaling back and revamping how they operate. For folks who shop or work at these stores, the closures can make a serious impact on economic stability.

So what can we expect in July 2026?

Kroger

Kroger closing stores has become one of the most talked-about retail stories of the summer, and at least one Kroger location is closing in July in Atlanta (at 2452 Morosgo Way), though that's likely far from the only store on its way out. Kroger announced that 60 locations were on the chopping block in a June conference call with investors.

The closures will happen over an 18-month period and are being attributed to declining profits. The company says it's working to find solutions for impacted workers.

Five Guys

Burgers and fries are as American as apple pie, but "financial hardship" has caused Five Guys Burgers and Fries to shutter locations from Florida to California, as reported in May of 2026.

Additional locations will close on the West Coast during the summer months, including in Hanford, California, on July 2, 2026. While the restaurant appears to be decreasing its presence domestically, internationally, it appears to be growing.

Torrid

Torrid has been on the decline for several years now and has announced plans to close up to 180 locations. So far, 171 stores have already turned off the lights. The plus-size retailer cites the growing use of GLP-1s like Ozempic as a reason for the drop in sales.

For now, Torrid says it will maintain its brick-and-mortar locations while expanding web sales, though you may see more store closures in July.

Ulta

July of 2026 will be the last full month you can enjoy picking up all of your Ulta favorites while on your Target run, as the brands revealed their partnership is coming to a permanent close the following month.

This means that over 600 Ulta stores will close, a hefty share of the market. Target will instead sell a "curated" selection of beauty products at "affordable prices."

West Marine

If you're not familiar with West Marine, odds are you know of its main competitor, Bass Pro Shops. The former filed for bankruptcy in May of 2026 and announced the closure of nearly 60 stores this year.

While some West Marine stores have plans to remain open through September (with out-of-business sales planned to clear merchandise), odds are good that some outlets won't make it to August 1.

7-Eleven

7-Eleven is closing about 600 stores in 2026 as it adjusts to a shifting economy. With many of us watching our spending, convenience store sales are unsurprisingly soft.

In a pivot, 7-Eleven is selling more fresh and prepared foods (as it does in Asian markets). The company is also experimenting with smaller stores as it prepares to go public. Check locally to see the fate of your 7-Eleven this July.

Carter's

If you shop for kids, you're probably familiar with Carter's, one of the country's best-known children's clothing stores. In October 2025, the brand explained that it's shuttering 150 stores over the next three years, which could include some locations in July.

The company, which also owns the storied Osh Kosh brands, says it's trying to improve profitability as operating costs rise (due to tariffs and more).

Wendy's

Are you having a harder time scoring Baconators and Frostys? It could be because Wendy's plans to close roughly 5% to 6% of its restaurants in 2026, or about 300 to 360 locations nationwide.

This is part of Wendy's "Project Fresh" strategy. While the company as a whole isn't going anywhere, more locations could shutter in July and later, even as the chain opens new restaurants elsewhere.

Papa John's

Papa John's is struggling with profitability across the country. The pizza chain closed 44 restaurants (from December 2025 through March 2026) in markets where sales have struggled. It's an effort, they say, to strengthen the business and focus on stronger locations.

More closures are slated to continue through 2026 (more than 200 Papa John's restaurant closures planned for the year), with potentially some shutting the lights off in July.

Bottom line

Retail closures hit hard, as no one wants to lose the familiar places we come to count on. On the upside, many of the companies on this list aren't vanishing entirely, though they are dealing with an uncertain market, which likely comes with unique challenges.

If one of your favorite stores is on this list, check in on your local spots and seek alternatives if needed. For folks trying to eliminate money stress, staying ahead of these changes can help keep your routine shopping and dining affordable.

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