In a move that has left crafters and DIY enthusiasts disheartened, Joann Fabrics, the beloved fabric and craft retailer, has announced the closure of three of its stores in Maine. This decision comes as part of the company’s broader restructuring efforts following its recent bankruptcy filing. The closures, which will affect locations in Portland, Bangor, and Augusta, mark the end of an era for many loyal customers who have relied on Joann for their creative projects. As the retail landscape continues to shift, the shuttering of these stores raises questions about the future of brick-and-mortar craft stores and the communities they serve.
A Storied History: Joann Fabrics’ Rise and Fall
Founded in 1943 as a single fabric store in Cleveland, Ohio, Joann Fabrics grew to become a cornerstone of the crafting community. With its vast selection of fabrics, sewing supplies, and crafting materials, Joann became a go-to destination for hobbyists, quilters, and DIYers. At its peak, the company operated over 850 stores across the United States, earning a reputation for its affordability and accessibility.
However, like many traditional retailers, Joann has struggled to adapt to the rise of e-commerce and changing consumer habits. The COVID-19 pandemic, while initially boosting sales as people turned to crafting during lockdowns, exacerbated the company’s financial challenges. Rising operational costs, declining foot traffic, and increased competition from online retailers like Amazon and Etsy have all contributed to Joann’s decline.
In March 2023, Joann filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing the need to restructure its debt and streamline operations. The closure of the Maine stores is part of this broader effort to stabilize the company’s finances and focus on more profitable locations.
The Impact on Maine Communities
For many Mainers, Joann Fabrics has been more than just a store—it’s been a community hub. The Portland, Bangor, and Augusta locations have served as gathering places for crafters, offering not only supplies but also workshops, classes, and a sense of camaraderie.
“Joann was my happy place,” said Sarah Thompson, a quilter from Portland. “I’ve been going there for years to buy fabric and take sewing classes. It’s heartbreaking to see it go.”
The closures will also have economic repercussions. Each store employs dozens of workers, many of whom have been with the company for years. For these employees, the shutdowns mean not only the loss of a job but also the end of a workplace that felt like family.
“I’ve worked at Joann for over a decade,” said Linda Carter, a store manager in Bangor. “It’s been a big part of my life, and it’s hard to imagine not being there anymore.”
The Broader Retail Landscape
Joann’s struggles are emblematic of the challenges facing brick-and-mortar retailers in the digital age. As consumers increasingly turn to online shopping, traditional stores must find ways to stay relevant. For Joann, this has meant investing in its e-commerce platform and expanding its online offerings. However, the transition has been rocky, with many customers complaining about high shipping costs and limited inventory.
The company’s bankruptcy filing highlights the precarious state of the retail industry, particularly for niche markets like crafting. While some specialty retailers have thrived by embracing online sales and social media marketing, others have been unable to keep pace with the rapid changes.
What’s Next for Joann Fabrics?
Despite the closures, Joann Fabrics remains committed to its mission of inspiring creativity. As part of its restructuring plan, the company plans to close underperforming stores while investing in its online presence and remaining locations. Joann has also announced partnerships with popular crafting influencers and plans to expand its product lines to include more eco-friendly and sustainable options.
“We are taking these difficult but necessary steps to ensure Joann’s long-term success,” said CEO Wade Miquelon in a statement. “Our goal is to emerge from this process as a stronger, more agile company that can continue to serve our customers for generations to come.”
Joann, the fabrics and crafts retailer, is shutting down hundreds of its stores nationwide as part of its bankruptcy proceedings.
The company filed a motion in court on Wednesday seeking approval to begin closing approximately 500 locations. https://t.co/z4tD1M7QpN pic.twitter.com/lU6EjuXcye
— ABC News (@ABC) February 13, 2025
The Crafting Community Reacts
The news of the Maine store closures has sparked an outpouring of support from the crafting community. On social media, customers have shared memories of shopping at Joann and expressed their sadness at the loss of a beloved retailer.
“Joann was where I bought my first sewing machine and learned to quilt,” tweeted one user. “It’s more than a store—it’s a part of my story.”
Others have called on Joann to reconsider its decision, urging the company to find ways to keep the stores open. “These stores are vital to our communities,” wrote a Bangor resident on Facebook. “Please don’t take them away.”
A Call to Action: Supporting Local Craft Stores
The closure of Joann’s Maine stores serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses. While online shopping offers convenience, it often lacks the personal touch and community connection that brick-and-mortar stores provide.
For Mainers, the loss of Joann may mean turning to smaller, independent craft stores or traveling to neighboring states for supplies. While these alternatives can’t fully replace Joann, they offer an opportunity to support local economies and keep the spirit of crafting alive.
The End of an Era
The closure of Joann Fabrics’ Maine stores is a bittersweet moment for the crafting community. While it marks the end of an era, it also underscores the resilience and creativity of crafters who will undoubtedly find new ways to pursue their passions.
As Joann Fabrics navigates its bankruptcy and works toward a brighter future, the company’s legacy will live on in the countless projects, memories, and friendships it has inspired. For now, Mainers will say goodbye to their local Joann stores, but the spirit of creativity they fostered will continue to thrive.
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