The retail landscape in the First State is facing a turbulent start to the year. While Delaware often escapes the worst of national retail purges thanks to tax-free shopping, 2026 has brought a wave of closures driven by corporate bankruptcies and “fleet optimization” strategies. From the beaches of Sussex County to the commercial corridors of New Castle, familiar storefronts are going dark.
Here is the definitive guide to the major store closures confirmed for Delaware in 2026.
1. The Discount Departure: Big Lots
The Headline: A favorite bargain hunter’s destination exits Milford. Location Closing: Milford (Sussex County/Kent Border).
Following its bankruptcy filing and subsequent restructuring, Big Lots is conducting a final “clean sweep” of its most troubled locations in 2026.
- The Details: The Milford location has been marked for closure, with aggressive liquidation sales currently clearing out inventory.
- The Impact: This leaves a significant vacancy in the Milford shopping landscape, forcing residents to look elsewhere for the discounted furniture and pantry staples the chain was known for. It marks a continued retreat of the brand from the Delmarva peninsula.
2. The Pharmacy Collapse: Rite Aid
The Headline: The wind-down hits the beach towns hard. Locations Closing: Lewes (Savannah Rd), Rehoboth Beach, and select New Castle sites…