Eddie Bauer could close all U.S. stores, operator expected to file for bankruptcy

Outdoor clothing retailer Eddie Bauer is expected to file for bankruptcy and close all its stores nationwide, according to a new report.

The retailer has more than 200 stores nationwide, according to its website, and its operator was preparing to file for Chapter 11 and close its brick-and-mortar business in the United States, according to Women’s Wear Daily.

There is one Eddie Bauer store on Long Island, at Tanger Outlets Riverhead. 

It's unclear if the Riverhead store had already closed as of Tuesday. Calls to the store were routed to the store’s voicemail with the message, “No one is available to take your call.”

Tanger Outlets Riverhead did not respond to requests for comment Tuesday. Representatives for Eddie Bauer declined to comment.

The store's hours of operation are listed from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. seven days a week, according to the company’s website.

Eddie Bauer has already closed four of its 11 New York State locations, including one at Tanger Outlets in Deer Park, the site says. The Deer Park store closed in June 2024, according to an archived version of the store’s web page. 

The Street notes Eddie Bauer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2003 under its then-parent company Spiegel Inc. and again in 2009 as Eddie Bauer Holdings Inc. Store operations are currently owned by Catalyst Brands (formed last year by Simon Simon Property Group, Brookfield Corp., Authentic Brands Group and Shein) under license from brand owner Authentic Brands Group.

But according to RetailWire, a new bankruptcy would only force its U.S. retail stores to close while business locations in Japan would not be impacted. Eddie Bauer could also continue manufacturing, online sales and wholesale operations in North America, allowing the brand to remain and be sold elsewhere.

Eddie Bauer, Catalyst Brands and Authentic Brands have not commented on the reported bankruptcy and the company's plans to close U.S. stores.

A large number of mall retailers and shopping center staples have struggled in recent years due to rising costs, increased competition and reduced foot traffic. Other businesses that have filed for bankruptcy and/or closed stores include the Gap, Macy’s, Joann Fabrics, GameStop, Francesca’s, At Home and Kohl’s.

Newsday's Celia Young and Victor Ocasio contributed to this story.