New York City, December 22, 2025
New York City experienced a significant decline in chain stores, with a 1.3% decrease since the previous year. Major retailers including Starbucks and Claire’s have closed numerous locations, while the food and beverage sector shows growth. This shift indicates changing consumer preferences and poses challenges for the retail environment.
Chain Store Closures Shake New York City Retail Landscape in 2025
Significant Changes in NYC’s Retail Environment
New York City witnessed a 1.3% decrease in the number of chain stores across its five boroughs in 2025, marking the sixth decline in the past eight years. This reduction equates to a net loss of 112 store locations since December 2024. The trend can largely be attributed to major retailers reevaluating their operations and scaling back their presence in the city.
Major Retailers Adapting to Market Challenges
Seven of the city’s ten largest retailers have reduced their footprint over the past year, collectively closing 92 stores. Leading the pack was Starbucks, which closed 42 locations in New York City. Other notable closures included:
- Claire’s: 50% decrease in store count
- Baked by Melissa: 27.3% decrease
- Staples: 14.3% decrease
- Edible Arrangements: 13.6% decrease
- Paper Source: 13.3% decrease
- Old Navy: 13% decrease
- Juice Press: 11.5% decrease
- Krispy Kreme: 10% decrease
- Banana Republic: 8.3% decrease
- Tim Horton’s: 8.3% decrease
- Duane Reade: 7.9% decrease
- GNC: 7.3% decrease
- Children’s Place: 7.1% decrease
Additionally, 18 retailers closed all their New York City locations in 2025, marking the highest number since 2020. Among these closures were Rite Aid, Rent-A-Center, Party City, and Forever 21.
Growth in Food and Beverage Sector
Despite the overall decline in chain stores, the food and beverage sector remains a bright spot. Dunkin’ has been the leading retailer in the city for 18 consecutive years, with a total of 623 locations. This sector has seen expansions from chains such as Popeye’s, Oakberry Açaí Bowls, and Wingstop, indicating a shift in consumer preferences that emphasizes food and beverage options over traditional retail.
Chain Store Distribution Across Boroughs
As of December 2025, the distribution of chain stores across New York City’s boroughs is as follows:
- Manhattan: 3,299 stores
- Queens: 1,811 stores
- Brooklyn: 1,803 stores
- The Bronx: 915 stores
- Staten Island: 486 stores
These figures highlight a dynamic retail environment that continues to evolve due to changing consumer behavior and market conditions.
Conclusion: The Future of Retail in NYC
The retail sector in New York City is undergoing significant changes, with a marked decline in chain stores noted in 2025. While several major retailers are scaling back their presence, the growth within the food and beverage chains suggests a systemic shift in consumer preferences. As the retail landscape continues to adapt, the resilience of small businesses paired with innovative strategies will be critical for an economic rebound and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the percentage decrease in chain stores across New York City in 2025?
The number of chain stores across New York City decreased by 1.3% in 2025, equating to a net loss of 112 store locations since December 2024.
Which major retailers closed the most stores in New York City in 2025?
Starbucks led the closures, shutting down 42 locations in New York City. Other significant closures included Claire’s, Baked by Melissa, Staples, and Edible Arrangements.
Which sector saw growth in chain stores in New York City in 2025?
The food and beverage sector experienced growth, with chains like Dunkin’, Popeye’s, Oakberry Açaí Bowls, and Wingstop expanding their presence in the city.
How many chain stores were there in each New York City borough in 2025?
As of December 2025, the number of chain stores in each borough was:
- Manhattan: 3,299 stores
- Queens: 1,811 stores
- Brooklyn: 1,803 stores
- The Bronx: 915 stores
- Staten Island: 486 stores
Key Features of the Retail Landscape in 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Decline in Chain Stores | 1.3% decrease, net loss of 112 stores since December 2024. |
| Major Retailer Closures | Starbucks closed 42 locations; other significant closures included Claire’s, Baked by Melissa, Staples, and Edible Arrangements. |
| Food and Beverage Sector Growth | Chains like Dunkin’, Popeye’s, Oakberry Açaí Bowls, and Wingstop expanded their presence. |
| Distribution Across Boroughs | Manhattan: 3,299 stores; Queens: 1,811 stores; Brooklyn: 1,803 stores; The Bronx: 915 stores; Staten Island: 486 stores. |
Now Happening on X
- @THECITYNY (December 17, 2025): The number of chain stores in New York City dropped by 1.3% in 2025, the sixth decline in the last eight years. View on X
- @amNewYork (December 17, 2025): This year was not friendly to chain stores in NYC. View on X
- @commobserver (December 19, 2025): Starbucks Leads the Way in NYC Closures as Chain Stores Scale Back. View on X
- @JesusGar (December 17, 2025): Comercio se transforma en NYC: 112 tiendas de famosas cadenas cerraron sus puertas en 2025. View on X
- @mgogel (December 17, 2025): Walking around New York City, the number of closed storefronts and out-of-business spots is giving 2020 feels, with “FOR RENT” signs at an all-time high and small retail close to capitulation. View on X
- @RetailPrintMed (December 17, 2025): Chain retailers continued decreasing NYC store presence in 2025. View on X
- @nycmaven44637 (December 18, 2025): Shop drop: Chain stores in NYC are declining in 2025 as others have shuttered: report. View on X
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