GNC
GNC, a company that has been selling nutrition and diet products since 1935, is slimming down. The vitamin and supplement retailer has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, stating that 800 to 1,200 locations will close. Around the world, the company operates 7,300 stores, including 3,600 standalone locations in the United States and 1,600 mini GNCs within Rite Aid pharmacies. GNC explains on its website that it has been struggling financially for the past few years but that it is making progress toward paying down its debt and keeping up with online competitors.
Pier 1 Imports
Pier 1 Imports has thrown in the towel, along with the scented candle, silk pillow, Papasan chair, and everything else this home furnishings retailer is known for. It began the year by announcing that nearly half of its 900 stores would close. The business had filed for bankruptcy and was looking for a buyer. Instead, pier 1 has closed all of its stores, bringing an end to a company that began in 1962 in San Mateo, California, with a single location selling bean bag chairs, incense, and love beads to baby boomers.