Here is the definitive guide to the major store closures confirmed for California in 2026.
1. The Anchor Loss: Macy’s
The Headline: Two major malls lose their department store anchor. Locations Closing: West Valley Mall (Tracy) and Grossmont Center (La Mesa).
As part of its “Bold New Chapter” strategy, Macy’s confirmed the closure of two significant California locations in early 2026.
- Tracy: The closure at West Valley Mall is a major blow to this Central Valley hub. City officials have noted that while the mall remains open, the loss of such a large anchor will force a rethink of the property’s future.
- San Diego County: The location at Grossmont Center in La Mesa is also shuttering. This aligns with the mall’s long-term redevelopment plans, which aim to transform the site into a massive residential and mixed-use district, signaling the end of the traditional department store era for this property.
2. The Discount Collapse: Big Lots
The Headline: A massive retreat from the Golden State. Locations: Statewide (75 locations confirmed).
California is bearing the brunt of the Big Lots bankruptcy restructuring. The discount chain is closing roughly 75 of its 109 locations in the state, a massive reduction that leaves huge holes in strip malls from Sacramento to San Diego.
- The Impact: This is one of the largest single-year retail exits in California history. Vacancies are opening up in key power centers in Fresno, Riverside, and the Bay Area.
- The Timeline: Liquidation sales are active, with most of these stores expected to go dark by the spring.
3. The Pharmacy Crisis: Walgreens & CVS
The Headline: The Bay Area continues to lose drugstores. Locations: San Francisco (Van Ness Ave), Oakland, and Richmond…