What observers say
“It is with a heavy heart we have to inform our community that the Sault Sainte Marie Kohl’s will be closing,” said Christopher Herbert, the store manager, as he announced the closure of the Kohl’s store in the Cascade Crossing shopping center on March 14, 2026. This decision reflects a broader trend within the retail sector, where companies are reevaluating their operations in response to changing market dynamics.
The closure was confirmed by Herbert in late January 2026, adding to the growing list of Kohl’s locations that have shut down in recent years. Last year alone, the company closed 27 stores across 15 states as part of its strategy to eliminate underperforming locations. As of March 2026, Kohl’s operates approximately 1,150 stores nationwide, with over 90% of them reported as profitable by CEO Michael Bender.
Despite the profitability of the majority of its stores, Kohl’s is facing challenges as it navigates a competitive retail landscape. The company has been losing sales to online giants like Amazon and off-price competitors such as Ross Stores. Bender noted that “core low- to middle-income customers continue to face financial pressure and they are seeking value,” which has influenced the company’s decision-making process regarding store operations.
The Sault Ste. Marie store, which opened in early March 2016 as the 46th Kohl’s location in Michigan, has now become the latest casualty in the company’s restructuring efforts. With this closure, Kohl’s will have 44 remaining stores in the state. At its peak, the Sault Ste. Marie location employed around 80 individuals, many of whom will now be seeking new employment opportunities.
Local leaders have expressed concern over the closure’s impact on the community. Tony Haller, executive director of the Sault Area Chamber of Commerce, remarked, “It’s concerning for the overall business community in Sault Ste. Marie.” The loss of a major retailer can have ripple effects on local businesses and the economy, as residents may have fewer shopping options and the community could see reduced foot traffic.
As Kohl’s continues to adapt to the current retail environment, the company has projected that its sales for 2026 could remain flat or potentially decline by as much as 2%. This forecast underscores the ongoing challenges faced by traditional retailers as they compete with evolving consumer preferences and economic pressures.
While Kohl’s remains committed to maintaining a profitable portfolio, the closure of the Sault Ste. Marie store serves as a reminder of the ongoing changes in the retail landscape. The company will likely continue to assess its operations and make strategic decisions to ensure its long-term viability in a competitive market.
