Craft chain Joann Fabrics closes all 800 locations across 49 states.
After 82 years in business, fabric and craft supply retailer, Joann Fabrics will be closing all 800 of its stores across the country. The store stocked home decor, fabric, yarn, and other craft supplies. After filing for bankruptcy twice, the chain was sold to the GA group (a private financial service company), who elected to liquidate the chain. The closing of Joann Fabrics leaves a gap in the fabric and crafts market which has yet to be filled by any other retailer.
The first Joann Fabrics was opened in Cleveland, Ohio in 1943. Over the next 82 years, the craft chain expanded to 49 states with 800 locations across the country. The chain was well known for their vast selection of fabric, becoming a go-to for sewists. After the pandemic-era surge in profits ended due to people putting down their new hobbies and returning to quarantine-free life, Joann’s struggled to keep itself afloat. They filed for bankruptcy in March of 2024 and again in January of 2025. In February 2025, the chain was bought by the GA Group corporation. While they originally planned to only close around 60% of their locations, the decision was quickly announced that every Joann Fabrics would be closing permanently.
With the closure of all Joann Fabrics locations, patrons are forced to find other options. However, the niche Joann Fabrics held within the market isn’t likely to be immediately filled. While similar craft stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby are just as widespread, they won’t be able to replace Joann’s. Michaels does not stock fabric or yarn, a major product within Joann Fabrics stores. Hobby Lobby does stock many of the same products, but consumers may take issue with their politics, including a 2014 lawsuit over employee healthcare and an artifact smuggling scandal. Small businesses are hard to find, more expensive, and carry a smaller selection of products.
Joann’s has already shut down online orders and use of gift cards. However, physical Joann Fabric locations will remain open until all stock is depleted. Prices will continue to decrease each week. Seasonal decor and less popular products are currently more than 80% off, while fabric and yarn remains in the 20-50% range. Consumers should strike now to purchase goods at a fraction of the price before the stores close indefinitely.
