Discount retailer Bob’s Stores has made the difficult decision to close all of its brick-and-mortar locations, including one in New Jersey, as the chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This includes shutting down all 21 remaining stores permanently and liquidating its inventory in the coming weeks. Bob’s president Dave Barton expressed regret over the financial circumstances that led to this decision, acknowledging the longstanding presence of Bob’s Stores in local communities for nearly 70 years.
With stores in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island, Bob’s Store locations that are set to close soon include the one in Freehold, New Jersey, as well as several others in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and Rhode Island. These stores are offering discounts ranging from 30-70% off as part of their “Going Out of Business Sale.”
Originally founded as “Bob’s Surplus” in Connecticut in 1954, Bob’s Stores was later acquired by TJX in 2003. After being sold to private equity firms and then to the GoDigital Media group in 2022, the discount retailer has unfortunately become the latest chain to announce closures, following others like Red Lobster and Rite Aid.
This news serves as a reminder of the challenging retail landscape and the impact of changing consumer habits on traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Despite the closure of its physical locations, Bob’s Stores will continue to operate online. Customers can still take advantage of discounts and deals on clothing, shoes, and other items on the Bob’s Stores website.