The headline story in the Ocean State isn’t just about chains leaving—it’s about the “Washington Bridge Effect” claiming its most high-profile victim yet, alongside the total exit of a popular mall boutique.
Here is the breakdown of the major retail and dining closures hitting Rhode Island this month.
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1. Plant City (Providence)
- The Status: Flagship Location Closure
- The Impact: In a massive blow to the downtown dining scene, Plant City—the world’s largest plant-based food hall—will permanently close its flagship South Water Street location on February 8, 2026.
- Why: This is a direct casualty of the…