The retail apocalypse continues with two major national chains planning to close some of their brick and mortar locations across the USA and Canada. Parent company L Brand has announced that Victoria's Secret, known for their lingerie, womenswear, and beauty products is permanently closing 250 locations. The company is headquartered out of Columbus, Ohio, and also includes the Bath and Body Works, C.O. Bigelow, Lane Bryant, Henri Bendel, and Tween brands. They were founded by Les Wexner, who has recently been in the news because of his controversial association with convicted sex offender and billionaire Jeffrey Epstein.

There are currently 1,091 stores in the US and Canada, with 909 of those being Victoria's Secret, and 144 operating under the 'Pink' store brand. The company is saying the closings will include 235 Victoria's Secret US locations, and three 'Pink' stores. There are currently 38 stores in Canada, and 13 of those will be shuttered. Most of the US stores have been closed since March 17, due to the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis.

Bath and Body Works has over 1600 locations, and specializes in body care and home fragrances. According to a press release from the company to USA TODAY, L Brands stated it 'remains committed to establishing Bath & Body Works as a pure-play public company and is taking the necessary steps to prepare the Victoria’s Secret Lingerie, Victoria’s Secret Beauty and PINK businesses to operate as a separate, standalone company'. Fifty of the US locations of Bath & Body Works are being shuttered, and one in Canada.

No locations have been released yet, and no word on if any of our Acadiana locations will be shuttered. The company says they are working hard at reopening stores that have been closed due to the coronavirus crisis. On a side note, I really love both of these brands and are hoping that they will remain open here, and around the state of Louisiana. Sending good wishes their way.

 

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