Retailers in Brazil and US reduce physical store counts

Major retail chains in Brazil and the United States are significantly reducing their physical footprints due to digital competition and restructuring.

In Brazil, five large retailers—Casas Bahia, Americanas, Carrefour, Marisa, and Magazine Luiza—have closed more than 1,100 stores since the end of 2022. Casas Bahia has undergone the most substantial reduction as part of a restructuring process involving R$ 17.3 billion in debt. Americanas has also reduced its store count from 1,803 to 1,470 following its 2023 accounting crisis, while Carrefour has streamlined operations following its integration of Grupo BIG.

In the United States, the century-old gardening chain Earl May Garden Centers announced it will close 25% of its locations, totaling seven of its 28 stores. This move includes closing its final unit in Missouri. The company faces intense competition from large national retailers such as Home Depot and Lowe’s, which dominate the gardening supply market.