The Great Restructuring in retail continues.
In the wake of a disappointing holiday season, J.C. Penney (JCP) said recently that it will close 138 stores stores by the second quarter. The store closures represent 13% to 14% of the company’s current store base and less than 5% of annual sales. They have a negligible impact on net income. J.C. Penney said same-store sales at the locations were “significantly below” the remaining store base and operate at a much higher expense rate due to poor productivity.
The company expects $200 million in annual costs savings from the efforts.
“We believe closing stores will also allow us to adjust our business to effectively compete against the growing threat of online retailers,” J.C Penney Chairman and CEO Marvin Ellison conceded.
The news shouldn’t come as a shock.
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