NEW HAMPSHIRE STATE - New Hampshire’s retail landscape is undergoing a significant transformation this spring. While the state's lack of sales tax has historically bolstered its malls, the combination of national bankruptcy filings and corporate "footprint optimization" is leading to several high-profile departures this April.
NEW HAMPSHIRE STATE - New Hampshire’s retail landscape is undergoing a significant transformation this spring. While the state's lack of sales tax has historically bolstered its malls, the combination of national bankruptcy filings and corporate "footprint optimization" is leading to several high-profile departures this April.From the Seacoast to the Border District, here are the five major retail chains closing doors in New Hampshire this month.
1. Macy’s
As part of its "Bold New Chapter" strategy to shutter 150 underperforming stores nationwide, Macy’s is officially exiting the Seacoast market. The location at the Mall at Fox Run in Newington is scheduled to lock its doors for the final time this month. This closure is part of a larger redevelopment project for the site, leaving only three Macy’s locations remaining in the state (Manchester, Nashua, and Salem).
2. Francesca’s
The trendy women’s boutique chain is finishing its total nationwide liquidation this April. Following a second Chapter 11 filing and a loss of critical funding, all physical boutiques are being shuttered. In New Hampshire, "Going Out of Business" sales are reaching their final days at:
- The Mall at Rockingham Park (Salem)
- Pheasant Lane Mall (Nashua)
- The Mall of New Hampshire (Manchester)
- Merrimack Premium Outlets
3. Big Lots
After months of financial uncertainty and a failed sale process, the discount retailer is moving forward with the closure of its remaining New England footprint. This month, New Hampshire locations—including the prominent shops in Derry and Claremont—are finishing their inventory liquidations. Shoppers can expect the deepest discounts of the year as the chain prepares to vacate its warehouse-style storefronts by April 30.
4. Walgreens
The pharmacy giant continues to trim its "underperforming" locations as part of a multi-year plan to cut 1,200 stores by 2027. This April, New Hampshire is seeing a handful of closures specifically targeted at areas with high store density. While the company has not released a master list, local branches in the Greater Manchester and Concord areas with expiring leases are among those slated to cease operations this month.
5. Express
Following its bankruptcy filing and subsequent restructuring, Express is "right-sizing" its mall presence. While several New Hampshire locations were spared in initial rounds, the North Conway (Settlers Green) outlet is finalized for closure this month. The brand is shifting its focus to its top-performing flagship stores and its growing digital platform.
Important Information for NH Shoppers
- Final Markdowns: At Francesca's and Big Lots, discounts have likely reached 80% to 90%. Note that all sales at these closing locations are final.
- Gift Card Alert: Consumer advocates warn that as these chains reach their final closing dates, gift cards may no longer be honored. If you have a balance for Francesca's or Express, use it immediately.
- Tax-Free Advantage: Even with these closures, New Hampshire remains a hub for "border shoppers." If you are traveling from out of state to catch a liquidation sale, remember that the lack of sales tax applies to the final discounted price, offering even deeper savings.
