Major craft retailer Joann files for bankruptcy
Crafts retailer Joann has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
In a statement on its website, Joann said its 800 stores will remain open nationwide during the bankruptcy process. According to The Hill, the Joann’s will continue to operate while it repays its debt with operations continuing in stores and online. Any obligations to employees, vendors, landlords and other trade creditors will be paid, reports indicate.
Joann is known for its sewing, fabrics and arts and crafts offerings.
“Over the past several months, JOANN has made meaningful business improvements through the execution of our Focus, Simplify and Grow cost reduction initiative,” Chris DiTullio, Chief Customer Officer and co-lead of the Interim Office of the CEO said in a statement. “We are excited by our progress on both top and bottom-line initiatives in the past year and are confident the steps we are taking will allow JOANN to drive long-term growth. We appreciate the support from our financial and industry stakeholders in this agreement, and their confidence in our ability to continue driving positive business change.”
The Chapter 11 process is expected to be complete as soon as late April.