Introduction
Walmart, the largest retailer in the United States, has announced plans to close a number of retail locations across the country in 2025 as part of an ongoing review of store performance and long-term business strategy. The decision affects 22 stores nationwide, including several in major metropolitan areas, and reflects broader shifts in consumer behavior, retail economics, and corporate strategy.
While Walmart continues to expand in other areas—such as e-commerce, automation, and select new store formats—the closures highlight the challenges facing brick-and-mortar retail even for industry leaders. Company representatives emphasized that each closure followed a careful evaluation process and was based primarily on long-term financial performance rather than short-term trends.
This article examines Walmart’s store closure plan, the reasons behind it, the locations affected, and what it means for employees, customers, and the broader retail landscape.
Overview of the 2025 Store Closures
Walmart confirmed that it will close 22 retail locations across the United States in 2025. The affected stores include a mix of Walmart Supercenters and Neighborhood Market locations. According to the company, all closures are tied to stores that have not met financial expectations over an extended period.
Among the most notable impacts are closures in large urban markets, including four locations in Chicago. Walmart has stated that urban retail environments present unique operational challenges, including higher operating costs, security concerns, and shifts in shopping patterns.
In addition to Chicago, closures are spread across several states, reflecting localized performance issues rather than a single regional trend.
Richmond, Virginia Store Closure Confirmed
As part of the broader plan, Walmart confirmed that a Neighborhood Market location on Brook Road in Richmond, Virginia, will close on July 28, 2025. The announcement was made public in a statement provided by company spokesperson Felicia McCranie.
In her statement, McCranie said the company was grateful for the opportunity to serve customers at the location but acknowledged that the store had not performed as expected financially.
Walmart noted that customers in the Richmond area will continue to have access to other nearby Walmart stores and online shopping options, including delivery and curbside pickup services.
Why Walmart Is Closing These Stores
Walmart emphasized that store closures are not unusual in an organization of its size. With thousands of locations worldwide, the company regularly evaluates performance to determine where adjustments are necessary.
Key factors contributing to closures include:
-
Consistently poor financial performance
-
Changing customer shopping habits
-
Rising operational costs, including rent and labor
-
Increased competition from other retailers and online platforms
-
Local market conditions that limit long-term growth
Company representatives stressed that the closures are not indicative of broader financial trouble. Walmart remains profitable and continues to invest heavily in growth areas.
The Challenges of Urban Retail
Several of the affected locations are in dense urban areas, which have become increasingly challenging environments for traditional retail operations. Urban stores often face higher costs related to rent, security, logistics, and staffing.
Additionally, consumer behavior in cities has shifted significantly in recent years. Many shoppers now prefer smaller, convenience-oriented stores, online ordering, or delivery services rather than large-format retail locations.
Walmart has acknowledged that some urban store formats have not performed as well as expected, prompting the company to rethink how it serves customers in those markets.
Impact on Employees
Store closures inevitably raise concerns about employees. Walmart stated that it is working to offer affected associates opportunities to transfer to nearby locations wherever possible.
The company employs more than a million workers in the U.S. alone, and employee retention remains a stated priority. Transfer options, severance packages, and career support services are typically offered depending on individual circumstances and location availability.
While closures are disruptive, Walmart representatives emphasized that the company continues to hire in other regions and business segments, including distribution centers, e-commerce operations, and new store openings.
Customer Access and Alternative Options
Walmart stressed that customers impacted by store closures will continue to have access to its products and services through other nearby locations and digital platforms.
In recent years, Walmart has invested heavily in:
-
Online ordering and home delivery
-
Curbside pickup services
-
Mobile app enhancements
-
Regional fulfillment centers
These investments allow the company to serve customers even in areas where physical store footprints are reduced.
Walmart’s Broader Business Strategy
Despite the closures, Walmart is not reducing its overall presence in the retail sector. Instead, the company is reallocating resources toward areas with stronger growth potential.
Strategic priorities include:
-
Expanding e-commerce capabilities
-
Improving supply chain efficiency
-
Investing in automation and technology
-
Opening new stores in high-growth regions
-
Enhancing customer experience through digital integration
Walmart executives have repeatedly emphasized that physical stores remain a critical part of the company’s strategy, particularly as fulfillment hubs for online orders.
How Common Are Store Closures in Retail?
Store closures are a common part of retail operations, even for large and successful companies. Retailers routinely close underperforming locations to maintain overall financial health.
In Walmart’s case, closing 22 stores represents a very small fraction of its total U.S. store count. Industry analysts note that periodic closures help companies adapt to changing market conditions and avoid larger financial challenges in the future.
Other major retailers have undertaken similar actions in recent years as shopping habits continue to evolve.
Community Reactions and Local Impact
Store closures can have a significant impact on local communities, particularly in areas where Walmart serves as a major grocery or general merchandise provider.
Community responses have varied. Some residents express disappointment over reduced access to affordable goods, while others point to broader economic issues affecting retail in their area.
Local officials often work with retailers to explore alternative uses for vacated properties, including redevelopment or new business opportunities.
Walmart’s Statement on Long-Term Commitment
Walmart has reiterated its long-term commitment to serving customers nationwide. Company leaders emphasize that decisions to close stores are made carefully and only after exploring alternatives.
In public statements, Walmart has highlighted its continued investment in:
-
Employee wages and benefits
-
Technology and innovation
-
Store remodeling and modernization
-
Community partnerships
These efforts are designed to strengthen the company’s position while adapting to changing retail realities.
The Future of Brick-and-Mortar Retail
The store closures reflect broader trends affecting the retail industry. Consumers increasingly expect convenience, flexibility, and digital integration. Retailers must balance physical presence with online efficiency to remain competitive.
Walmart’s approach—closing underperforming locations while expanding digital services and optimizing remaining stores—illustrates how traditional retailers are evolving rather than disappearing.
Industry experts note that physical stores are likely to remain relevant, but their role is changing from purely shopping destinations to multi-purpose service and fulfillment hubs.
What Shoppers Should Know
Customers who frequent affected locations are encouraged to:
-
Check Walmart’s website or app for nearby stores
-
Explore delivery and pickup options
-
Watch for updates regarding store-specific timelines
Walmart typically provides advance notice to ensure customers have time to adjust.
Conclusion
Walmart’s decision to close 22 U.S. stores in 2025 reflects ongoing changes in the retail landscape rather than a retreat from brick-and-mortar retail. The closures are focused on locations with long-standing financial challenges, allowing the company to redirect resources toward areas of growth and innovation.
While store closures can be difficult for employees and communities, Walmart has emphasized its commitment to supporting affected workers and maintaining customer access through other stores and digital services.
As consumer habits continue to evolve, Walmart’s actions highlight how even the largest retailers must adapt to remain competitive. The coming years will reveal how effectively these strategic adjustments position the company for long-term success.