Based on recent bankruptcy filings, corporate restructuring announcements, and ongoing “fleet optimization” plans, here are six major retail chains closing locations in Alaska this year.
1. Walgreens
The pharmacy giant is in the midst of a massive plan to close roughly 1,200 stores nationwide to cut costs. Alaska is a prime target for these corrections due to the exceptionally high cost of shipping inventory and staffing in the state.
Walgreens is focusing on closing locations that are not profitable enough to sustain these rising operational costs. Locations in Anchorage and Wasilla are under review, particularly those that face stiff competition from Fred Meyer and local stalwarts like Carrs-Safeway. If you rely on a specific Walgreens for your prescriptions, keep an eye on your local branch, as the company plans to finalize these cuts throughout 2026.
2. Macy’s
The iconic department store continues its strategy of exiting struggling malls to focus on its best-performing sites. Macy’s has confirmed a new round of closures as part of its “Bold New Chapter” plan, aiming to close 150 stores by the end of 2026.
In Alaska, all eyes are on the location at the 5th Avenue Mall in Anchorage. As the company focuses on its “luxury” banner and consolidates its presence in the Lower 48, industry analysts warn that remote locations with high overhead—like the one in Anchorage—remain vulnerable to sudden closure announcements as the lease renewal period approaches.
3. Advance Auto Parts (and Carquest)
The auto parts giant is pumping the brakes harder than almost any other retailer this year. Advance Auto Parts announced a massive restructuring plan to shutter over 700 locations nationwide to stabilize its finances…