American Freight, a well-known furniture and appliance retailer, is closing its doors at five South Florida locations as part of a broader Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring plan. The Ohio-based company, owned by Delaware’s Franchise Group Inc., began the process of winding down its 370-store chain this month.
The affected South Florida stores include:
- 5240 NW 167th St., Hialeah
- 8090 NW 77th Court, Medley
- 6001 Powerline Road, Fort Lauderdale
- 6688 N Military Trail, Riviera Beach
- 2031 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach
Despite efforts to reach American Freight for specific closure dates, no response was received by the time of reporting.
American Freight’s shutdown is part of the Franchise Group’s strategy to address financial challenges through bankruptcy proceedings. The company, which also owns brands like Pet Supplies Plus, The Vitamin Shoppe, and Buddy’s Home Furnishings, stated that these franchised businesses are unaffected and will continue to operate normally.
To support its restructuring plan, Franchise Group has secured a $250 million debtor-in-possession financing agreement with 80% of its primary debt holders, who will receive equity stakes in the company as part of the deal. CEO Andrew Laurence emphasized that the move aims to reduce debt and enable its other brands to reach their full market potential.