Sports brand to close hundreds of US stores in major shake-up

Business & FinanceSports
13 May 2026 • 4:49 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Sports brand to close hundreds of US stores in major shake-up

  • JD Sports plans to close approximately 175 Hibbett stores across the U.S. over the next three years.
  • This strategic decision aims to consolidate operations into fewer, larger and more profitable locations.
  • The British retailer acquired Hibbett for about $1.1 billion in 2024 as part of its expansion into the North American sportswear market.
  • The move comes amid increased competition, particularly from Dick's Sporting Goods, which has been successful with its larger, experience-focused stores.
  • Company leaders believe focusing on bigger stores will allow for greater investment in technology and an enhanced customer experience, despite some smaller stores having strong sales.

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