Torrid to Close 180 Stores as Digital Sales Surge—What’s Next for Florida?

Daytona Beach, Florida, USA - The retail landscape is shifting right under our feet, and it’s causing quite a stir here in Florida. Not too long ago, we learned about the impending closure of numerous retail locations, including those of Torrid, a popular women’s plus-size apparel retailer. As of June 10, 2025, Torrid has yet to pinpoint the specific stores that will close, but the company’s decision stems from a need to adapt to the current demand and sales trends.

Torrid has announced plans to shut down up to 180 underperforming stores this year, which accounts for nearly 30% of their total fleet of 632 stores. This is part of a broader strategy to embrace digital sales, which have surged to nearly 70% of overall demand Florida Today reports. CEO Lisa Harper noted that these closures will allow the company to align more closely with customer preferences and to streamline operations. Moreover, Torrid is enhancing its digital focus while investing in omnichannel improvements, a move that makes sense in today’s fast-paced retail environment.

Shifting Strategies

The closure announcement coincided with Torrid’s first-quarter financial results, revealing a net sales dip of 4.9% year-over-year, landing at $266 million. Torrid’s comparable sales also fell by 3.5% in the same period Retail TouchPoints highlights. This dip has prompted a strategic reassessment and a pivot towards a more digitally-led operational framework. It appears that retailers nationwide are grappling with these shifts, largely driven by economic factors and the evolving nature of consumer behavior.

The closure of these stores is not just a localized issue for Torrid, but a reflection of broader trends shaping the retail landscape. Companies like JCPenney and Joann are also shutting down stores, signaling a shift that may redefine our shopping experience in the coming years. With the impact of tariffs and the need for optimization, it may be time to rethink how much physical retail space we really need, particularly as digital sales continue to rise Bain & Company notes.

Innovations on the Horizon

Interestingly, as retailers face these challenges, there’s a promising silver lining. Torrid is launching sub-brands such as Lovesick and Studio Luxe, expected to attract younger shoppers and drive higher-margin sales. With these sub-brands projected to represent nearly a third of Torrid’s business by 2026, there’s something to be said for innovation in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, the rise of AI in retail can’t be overlooked. This technology is revolutionizing everything from customer experiences to inventory management. Retailers will need to integrate more tech, allow for personalized value, and potentially even re-evaluate their physical presence Bain & Company suggests. As we move forward, it seems likely that we’ll see fewer retail locations, but those that remain may be more efficient and customer-centric.

As it stands, Torrid operates 33 locations across Florida, including hot spots like Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville. The company’s loyal customer base, with 95% engagement, shows that there’s a strong community that values their offerings. Customers looking for updates on which locations will close can keep an eye on the Torrid website for more information.

The transition is tough, but if history tells us anything, innovation often comes alongside these changes. So, while it’s sad to see stores closing, it’s also a chance for retailers to reinvent themselves and keep up with the ever-evolving demands of shopping in the digital age. Only time will tell how this will all shake out.