In 2025, several well-known retail stores including Forever 21, Joann Fabrics, Party City, and Rite Aid closed down due to bankruptcy and financial struggles, marking a significant shift in the retail landscape amid economic challenges.
Forever 21 is seeking rent concessions from landlords as it faces declining sales and struggles to compete with faster, more agile competitors like Shein and Temu. The retailer, which has over 380 U.S. stores, is not considering a second bankruptcy but aims to restructure leases to cut costs. Forever 21's financial woes have also impacted its operator, Sparc Group, which manages other struggling brands. Despite efforts to adapt, including a partnership with Shein, the company continues to grapple with inventory management and rapidly changing consumer trends.
Shein and Forever 21 have announced a co-branded clothing line as part of their joint venture, with Shein designing, manufacturing, and distributing the apparel primarily on its website. The line will include men's and women's apparel, as well as sportswear, activewear, and swimwear. This partnership allows Shein to sell its affordable clothing in Forever 21's retail stores, expanding its customer base, while Forever 21 can leverage Shein's digital capabilities to boost its e-commerce presence. The collaboration also helps Shein address concerns about its reputation and ties to China, while assisting Forever 21 in regaining relevance and attracting younger online shoppers.
Fast-fashion retailers Shein and Forever 21 have announced a joint venture that will see Shein acquiring a third of Forever 21's operator, Sparc Group, while Sparc takes a minority stake in Shein. The deal aims to expand the reach of both brands, allowing Shein to have a larger presence in U.S. malls and giving Forever 21 new ways to reach customers through Shein's online platform. Shein has faced criticism and allegations of violating import tariff laws and relying on underpaid labor, prompting the company to distance itself from China. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
Online fashion retailer Shein has reached a deal with struggling fashion brand Forever 21, according to a WSJ News exclusive. The details of the deal have not been disclosed, but this partnership could potentially help revive Forever 21's business and expand Shein's presence in the retail market.
A 14-year-old girl shopping at Forever 21 in La Cantera, San Antonio, had a terrifying experience when she discovered a cellphone camera set up in the dressing room stall pointed at her. She noticed another girl on the other side of the stall and realized the man was attempting to record them. The girl immediately alerted a staff member, who ordered the man out of the dressing room. The girl managed to take a photo of the man before he fled. The incident is under investigation by the police, and the family's attorney urges parents to teach their children about situational awareness and taking action if needed.