Saks Off 5th, the off-price retail chain under Saks Global, will close nine of its 79 locations starting in January 2026, including its store in West Hartford, Connecticut. This decision comes after a thorough review of the company’s operations and aims to streamline its presence by focusing on more profitable locations.
The West Hartford store, situated in the former Sears building at Corbin’s Collection on New Britain Avenue, opened in 2018 alongside other businesses at Corbin’s Corner, across from the Westfarms mall. According to reports from Yahoo Finance and WWD, the closure is part of a broader strategy to optimize store performance and enhance customer experience.
Store Closures Driven by Market Analysis
The evaluation leading to these closures considered various factors, including market dynamics, lease expirations, customer behavior, and the long-term viability of each location. A spokesperson for Saks stated, “We have identified opportunities to optimize our Saks Off 5th store presence, through both initiatives to drive performance and elevate the customer experience.”
The closures will also affect locations in major cities such as Chicago, Austin, and Philadelphia, confirming the brand’s strategic shift toward consolidating its operations. While the exact closing date for the West Hartford location was not specified, the company plans to finalize closures by early 2026.
Future Focus on High-Performing Locations
This move reflects the company’s commitment to positioning Saks Off 5th for long-term success. By concentrating on high-performing and high-potential store locations, the retailer aims to ensure a stronger presence in the competitive retail market. The strategic adjustments are intended to create a more streamlined customer experience while maximizing operational efficiency.
As the retail landscape continues to evolve, Saks Off 5th’s decision to close underperforming locations underscores the challenges faced by brick-and-mortar businesses in adapting to shifting consumer preferences and economic conditions. The company remains hopeful about its future prospects and is committed to delivering quality service to its customers moving forward.
