Torrid going out of business is a topic many shoppers are searching online after news of store closures. Reports about the company shutting down locations have created confusion among customers. Some believe the brand may close completely, while others think it is only making business changes. In reality, many retailers are shifting toward online sales instead of physical stores. In this article, we will explain the real situation behind Torrid and what it means for shoppers like Wendy’s.
Torrid Going Out of Business TimeLine (2001–2026)
Torrid has transformed from a mall-based niche experiment into North America’s largest direct-to-consumer brand for women’s plus-size fashion. In 2026, the company is finalizing a massive “Retail Optimization” phase, closing roughly 180 underperforming stores to pivot toward a high-margin, digital-first model centered on its new sub-brands and core intimates business like the Hobby Lobby.
Key Strategic Milestones
- 2001 (The Launch): Founded as a subsidiary of Hot Topic; the first store opened at the Brea Mall in California to meet the massive underserved demand for plus-size “junior” fashion.
- 2013 (Sycamore Acquisition): Private equity firm Sycamore Partners acquired Hot Topic for $600 million, taking control of Torrid and beginning its operational separation.
- 2015 (Going Independent): Torrid officially spun off from Hot Topic to become a standalone brand, allowing for targeted expansion into the $18 billion plus-size market.
- 2021 (The IPO): Torrid went public on the NYSE under the ticker CURV, raising $231 million and valuing the company at approximately $2.3 billion.
- 2024–2025 (Operational Reset): CEO Lisa Harper initiated a “turnaround” year, closing 151 structurally unproductive stores to cut fixed costs and reinvest in e-commerce.
- 2026 (The Digital Pivot): Currently operating 483 stores (down from 634), the company is projecting a recovery with 12% of sales coming from newly launched sub-brands and a return to profitable footwear scaling.
Torrid Going Out of Business: What’s the Real Truth?
The truth is simple—Torrid is not going out of business or filing for bankruptcy in 2026. Yes, the company is closing a few stores, but this does not mean the brand is shutting down. Torrid is still one of the top names in plus-size fashion.
These store closures are part of a normal business plan to close locations that are not doing well. At the same time, the brand is working on opening new and more modern “pop-up” style stores in busy areas where more customers visit.
Overview of Torrid
Torrid is a well-known American retail brand that sells clothes, accessories, and shoes for women in sizes 10 to 30. It first started as a part of Hot Topic but later became its own company and is now publicly traded. Today, Torrid has hundreds of stores across the United States and Canada and has a strong and loyal customer base. The brand focuses on a “fit-first” idea, which means every item is made to fit curves properly and comfortably like the Staples.
| Feature | Details |
| Target Audience | Plus-size women (Sizes 10-30) |
| Primary Products | Jeans, Dresses, Intimates, Shoes |
| Market Status | Publicly Traded (NYSE: CURV) |
Why Are People Saying Torrid Is Closing?
Many people are talking about Torrid closing because they have seen “Store Closing” signs in malls. On Reddit and other platforms, customers have shared that some stores in smaller towns are shutting down at the same time.
This has created confusion and rumors that the whole company is closing. In reality, only some locations are affected. People also say that high mall rents are one big reason why certain stores are being closed.
How Many Torrid Stores Are Closing?
Torrid plans to close around 15 to 25 stores during the 2026 fiscal year. This number is small when you compare it to more than 600 stores the company has across North America. The company is carefully choosing which stores to close, mostly where leases are ending or sales are low. This careful planning helps Torrid stay strong without affecting its overall business.
List of Torrid Locations That Are Shutting Down
There is no full official list of all closing stores yet. However, most closures are happening in older malls, especially in the Midwest and Northeast. Stores in smaller areas where customer visits have dropped a lot are more likely to close. Big cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago are not expected to see major changes. It is best to check the Torrid website store locator to see the latest update for your nearest store like Home Depot.
| Region | Expected Closures |
| Midwest | 5 – 8 Stores |
| Northeast | 4 – 6 Stores |
| South/West | 3 – 5 Stores |
Why Torrid Is Closing Stores in 2026?
The main reason behind these closures is to cut down high costs, especially expensive mall rents. Many older malls do not get as many visitors as before, so stores there struggle to meet sales goals. By closing these weak locations, Torrid can use that money in better ways, like improving fabric quality and making shipping faster. This helps the company stay strong even when the retail market is facing issues like inflation.
Shift Toward Online Shopping and Digital Strategy
Torrid is now focusing more on online shopping through its website and mobile app. More than 40% of its sales already come from online orders. The company is also working on “Virtual Fit” technology, which helps customers find the right size without trying clothes in-store.
Torrid is also improving its loyalty program, giving special online discounts to “Torrid Rewards” members. This digital focus matches how people prefer to shop today—from home.
Customer Reactions to Torrid Store Closures
Customers have shared mixed reactions online. Many people feel sad because Torrid is one of the few brands that offer stylish plus-size clothing that fits well. This is especially difficult for people in smaller towns, where the nearest store may now be far away.
On the other hand, some customers are happy because the brand is improving its online shopping and delivery speed. Overall, people feel both disappointed about store closures and hopeful about better online services.
What the Future Looks Like for Torrid?
Torrid’s future looks stable and positive. The company plans to move more stores to “off-mall” locations, which are easier for customers to visit. They are also growing their “Curve” intimates collection, which is one of their fastest-growing product lines.
By the end of 2026, Torrid is also expected to work with influencers to attract younger customers. With these steps, the brand is trying to stay strong and grow in the plus-size fashion market.
| Growth Area | Strategy |
| Intimates | Expanding the “Curve” bra collection |
| Location Type | Moving from Malls to Strip Centers |
| Tech | AI-driven size recommendations |
My Research about Torrid
As you know, I am the Assistant Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship, and I share business updates on Bizlixo. My research on Torrid shows that the company is not going out of business but is adjusting its strategy by closing some underperforming stores.
Torrid is focusing more on online sales, digital growth, and improving customer experience. These steps help the brand stay strong and continue growing in the plus-size fashion market.
Final Verdict: Is Torrid Really Going Out of Business?
The clear answer is no—Torrid is not going out of business. The store closures people are seeing are just part of making the business better and more efficient. You can still shop from Torrid in stores and online without worry in 2026 and beyond. The brand is stable, growing online, and continues to focus on serving plus-size customers with better products and services like the The Container Store.
FAQs
Is Torrid going out of business in 2026?
No, Torrid is not going out of business but is closing some stores as part of its strategy.
Why is Torrid closing stores?
The company is focusing more on online sales and closing underperforming physical locations.
How many Torrid stores are closing?
Reports suggest that up to around 180 stores may close as part of restructuring.
Can customers still shop at Torrid?
Yes, customers can shop both online and at remaining store locations.
