Chico’s and White House Black Market stores to close in downtown SLO
Two chain women’s clothing stores in downtown San Luis Obispo’s Court Street Center will close later this month.
Chico’s and White House Black Market, sister brands owned by the same parent company and located across from Pottery Barn, are planning to shut their doors on Jan. 26.
Currently, signs are posted for sales of 50% to 70% off. The store offers blouses, jackets, jewelry, pants and more.
“Closing stores is never an easy decision, but we are committed to making this transition as seamless as possible for our customers and team members and for the local community,” said Pashen Black, director of corporate public relations and social marketing for Chico’s FAS.
Employees will receive severance, extended health benefits and outplacement services, Black said.
“We are committed to taking care of our associates throughout this process,” Black said.
Workers at both stores said they weren’t authorized to speak about the matter, referring questions to the company’s corporate office.
Therese Cron, the West Coast regional leasing director for the property owner, Jamestown, said no new tenants have been lined up to move in yet.
But other businesses have shown interest in the location, and “prospecting for both spaces have been in play,” Cron said.
Chico’s FAS was founded in 1983 “as a small boutique selling Mexican folk art on Sanibel Island in Florida,” according to the company’s website.
“Then one day, our founders discovered the sweater that made literally everyone look fabulous, pivoted the business, and retail was never the same,” the store’s website stated. “... For every piece we create, we ask how it will be unique, inspire women to feel good (no matter their age), and help them express their personality and individuality with confidence.”
As of Oct. 1, the company operates 1,376 boutiques and outlets throughout the United States, including Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada, the Chico’s website says, geared toward women over 30.
“For our customers, we are committed to always delivering the most amazing personal service,” the company stated. “They can conveniently shop their favorite styles online and have access to personal stylists.”
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