As of early 2024, there are only two Kmart stores remaining open in the world.
Once a dominant force in American retail, the Kmart brand has significantly contracted over the past decades. While Kmart once boasted thousands of locations, its footprint has dramatically shrunk due to various economic challenges and competitive pressures. The most recent wave of closures saw the last remaining Kmart stores in the continental United States shut their doors. In 2022, there were only three Kmarts left in the continental U.S., with the final full-size store ceasing operations in October of that year.
Remaining Kmart Locations
Despite the extensive closures across the mainland U.S., Kmart maintains a very limited presence in U.S. territories. These two surviving stores continue to serve their local communities, representing a significant piece of retail history.
The two operational Kmart stores are located in:
- St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands: Situated in the heart of the Caribbean, this store serves residents and tourists alike.
- Guam: Located in the Western Pacific, this Kmart store is a popular shopping destination for the island's population.
These locations stand as the last vestiges of a once-expansive retail empire.
Kmart's Legacy and Evolution
Kmart's journey from a retail giant to a niche presence reflects broader shifts in the retail landscape, marked by the rise of e-commerce and changing consumer habits.
- Decline in the U.S.: The brand's decline in the continental U.S. was characterized by numerous store closures, liquidations, and bankruptcy filings by its parent companies. The move to consolidate operations and streamline its business model led to the systematic closure of most of its American locations.
- International Presence Clarification: It's important to note that the Kmart brand operating in Australia and New Zealand is a separate entity, Kmart Australia, and is not directly affiliated with the U.S.-based Kmart that once had a vast presence in North America. These international stores continue to operate as a successful and distinct retail chain.
Overview of Kmart Store Status
The following table provides a summary of Kmart's operational status by region:
| Location Category | Number of Stores | Specific Locations | Status/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continental U.S. | 0 | (Formerly 3 in 2022, last closed October 2022) | All Kmart stores in the mainland U.S. have closed |
| U.S. Territories | 2 | St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Guam | Currently open and serving local communities |
| Total Worldwide | 2 | The last two Kmart stores globally |
For those who grew up with Kmart's blue light specials and iconic jingles, the remaining two stores serve as a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era in retail.
