Here’s an important development in the world of fashion, showing how businesses are adapting to changing times. Torrid, a truly important brand known for being a hero in plus-size fashion, is making a significant change. This U.S. clothing retailer will be closing up to 180 of its stores—that’s roughly 30% of its total locations—by the end of 2025. This is a big shift, affecting more than half of its current physical presence.
But this isn’t a retreat; it’s a strategic move stepping forward into a digital-first future. Torrid is focusing on new ways to connect with its customers, including exploring showrooms, using data to create smarter shopping experiences, and committing to eco-conscious brand growth. This move reflects a broader trend of companies adapting to the convenience and reach of online operations, aiming to better serve their community of customers while also striving for more sustainable practices.
In Native American traditions, we honor the seasons of change—knowing the path may shift, but the spirit stays strong.
US Clothing Retailer to Shut 180 Stores in Shift
| Aspect | Details & Insights |
|---|---|
| Store Closures | 180 underperforming stores to close in 2025, after 26 in 2024—leaving ~632 locations |
| Financials | Q1 net sales fell 4.9% (to $266M); margins down from 41.3% to 38.1%; digital accounts for ~70% of demand |
| Sub-Brand Strategy | Lovesick & Studio Luxe sub-brands to drive growth, expected to make up ~30% of business by 2026 |
| Showroom Conversion Plan | Many closed stores converted to appointment-based showrooms with stylists and fitting help |
| Sustainability Actions | Uses recyclable trims, EIM software for denim impact, biodegradable shoebags, and corporate ESG goals |
| Employee & Lease Factors | 60% of leases up for renewal; relocations or internal moves offered to affected staff |
| Industry Context | Part of broader “retail apocalypse”; ~45,000 US store closures projected by 2030 |
| Return‑Fit Tech | Growth in size‑fit tools online (e.g., SizeFlags) can cut returns, boost omnichannel convenience |
| Careers & Professionals | New roles in digital marketing, data science, UX design, supply chain, sub-brand support, showroom curation, sustainability |
| Official IR Site | Torrid Investor Relations – includes Q1 2025 detailed report |
This major shift by the U.S. clothing retailer, where they are closing many physical stores to move towards online operations, isn’t about giving up; it’s truly about stepping forward together into a new way of connecting. Torrid, a brand dedicated to its customers, is actively honoring customer preference for online shopping while still looking for ways to preserve important community touchpoints.
They are wisely merging digital smarts with a commitment to sustainability and genuine human care. This move aims for relevance in a world that is shifting fast, recognizing that how people shop and interact is constantly evolving. It’s a humanitarian approach to business, where companies adapt to better serve their communities, reduce their environmental footprint through more efficient operations, and continue to provide the products people love in ways that are convenient and responsible.
In Native American teachings, true strength lies in adaptability—walking new paths with humility and heart. Torrid’s journey reminds us: change isn’t the end. It’s the beginning of a new, stronger path forward.
Why Torrid Is Evolving
Started in 2001 at Brea Mall, Torrid grew fast to over 650 stores. But consumer habits changed—70% of demand moved online, pushing Q1 sales down 5%. With a 38% margin, fewer physical stores meant better cost efficiency (people.com).
So instead of holding on, Torrid is pivoting—closing low-performing locations, converting remaining ones into hybrid showrooms, and redirecting funds to digital ads, data systems, and loyalty programs.
CEO Lisa Harper explained:
“We remain in a strong financial position… closing stores to reinvest in areas that drive long-term growth, including customer acquisition and omnichannel enhancements.” (investors.torrid.com)
Mix of Work – Online, Offline, and In-Between
Showrooms Meet Online Convenience
Torrid plans to convert some stores to appointment-based showrooms, where stylists help customers with fit—and orders are placed online. This hybrid model boosts convenience while maintaining that in-person touch (the-sun.com).
Sub‑Brand Growth
Sub-brands Lovesick and Studio Luxe are expanding fast—the mix is expected to hit 30% of Torrid’s business by 2026 (insideretail.us). These lines attract younger shoppers and improve margin.
Smart Fit Tech
Studies like SizeFlags show AI can reduce fit-related returns online. Torrid may integrate such tools to help shoppers choose right—a win for user experience, margins, and sustainability.
Sustainability – More Than Just Fashion
Torrid’s 2023 sustainability report reveals a dedication to eco-progress:
- Recycled trims, biodegradable packaging, and jewelry bags
- Denim finishing optimized via Environmental Impact software
- Shoebags are 100% biodegradable (s28.q4cdn.com)
- These steps cut waste, support brand values, and resonate with eco-aware shoppers.
Workforce and Lease Strategy
Nearly 60% of store leases are up for renewal in 2025 . Many underperforming locations fall into that group.
Torrid plans to offer affected employees relocation or digital roles, and keep staffing for showrooms. However, transitions were felt in communities—the Bay Area, Santa Rosa, Pleasant Hill, and more were mentioned.
Bigger Picture—America’s Retail Shift
The move follows a nationwide trend:
- Over 45,000 U.S. store closures predicted by 2030.
- Major chains like Macy’s, JCPenney, Kohl’s, and Forever 21 are downsizing.
- Retailers like Walmart and Target survive by blending store and online experiences
- Torrid’s pivot—closing, not collapsing—follows a traditional path to digital resilience.
Professional Guide for Retail Leaders
- Do the Inventory: Identify underperforming locations and evaluate lease renewal timing. Keep strong-traffic spots, close or convert others.
- Design Showroom Hybrids: Appointment-based services, stylists, digital kiosks, click-to-order systems—blend presence and convenience.
- Build Digital Muscle: Invest in data, CRM systems, AI-powered fit tech, and seamless interfaces across mobile and web.
- Launch Sub‑Brands: Tailored collections (like Lovesick, Studio Luxe) attract new customers and improve margins.
- Push Sustainability: Use green materials, eco-aware packaging, and communicate these efforts to consumers—build long-term trust.
- Manage Staff Transitions: Offer reskilling, relocation to digital/showroom roles, and mental health resources to ease change.
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Careers in This New Era
This pivot opens roles across:
- E-commerce Managers
- Data Analysts (customer & behavior insights)
- UX/UI Designers for fit and experience
- Omnichannel Supply Chain Planners
- Showroom Curators
- Sub‑Brand Marketers
- Sustainability Coordinators
- Change Management Specialists
Success lies in cross-functional teams: digital, supply chain, retail ops, design, and sustainability all working together.
FAQs
Q: Will Torrid disappear from states like California?
No—the closures are strategic. Around 70% of demand is digital, and many closures convert to showrooms or remain open.
Q: Who loses jobs?
Some will relocate or transition internally; others may leave. Torrid supports moves, but community impact remains real.
Q: How big is the shift to online?
About 70% of Tornid purchases now happen online—a reflection of how customers shop today.
Q: What’s a showroom model?
Physical space stays, but customers try styles in-store and order online. Stylists assist, giving a personal touch without full inventory investment.
Q: How does Torrid stay sustainable?
They’re sourcing recycled materials, measuring denim impacts, cutting waste, and using biodegradable packaging.
