CALIFORNIA – Torrid, a California-based plus-size women’s clothing brand announced during its June 5 first-quarter earnings call that it plans to close up to 180 underperforming stores this year.

The company — headquartered in the City of Industry, has over 630 stores across the country.

Torrid CEO Lisa Harper said closing stores will help the company cut costs, focus on growth through customer outreach and improve both online and in-store shopping.

The announcement follows a 4.9% decrease in net sales, dropping from $279.8 million in the first quarter of last year to $266.0 million this year.

Despite sales decrease, Harper said Torrid remains in a strong financial position and is executing its strategy with clarity and focus. 

70% of the brand’s demand comes from online sales

Torrid already closed two stores in the first quarter and 22 in the previous quarter.

Over the past year, several major fashion brands – including Forever 21 and surf brands like Billabong, Volcom and Quicksilver, have announced multiple store closures due to declining in-store sales and growing competition from online retailers.

Harper confirmed that nearly 70% of the brand’s demand now comes from online sales and the company is transforming to a more digitally-led business.

She stressed the importance of having fewer but better stores and focusing on online shopping and digital tools to grow the business.

Torrid was founded in 2001

Since its launch in 2001, Torrid has grown into a leading plus-size fashion retailer catering to a loyal and diverse customer base.