Dressbarn Closing All 650 Stores, Going Out Of Business

Dressbarn has announced plans to close all 650 of its stores, becoming the latest in an ongoing number of brick-and-mortar chains to go out of business.

"This decision was difficult, but necessary, as the Dressbarn chain has not been operating at an acceptable level of profitability in today’s retail environment," Steven Taylor, Dressbarn chief financial officer, said in a statement. "During the wind down process, we will continue to provide our customers with the same great experience both in-store and online, offering them even better deals and value."

Dressbarn is owned by the New Jersey-based Ascena Retail Group, which also operates Ann Taylor, Loft, Lou & Grey, Lane Bryant, Cacique, Catherines and Justice.

Dressbarn's decision to shutter its stores continues a brutal year for retailers. Nationwide, there's already been more store closures announced this year that in all of last year.

Closing dates for the stores have not been disclosed. For the moment, all Dressbarns are conducting business as usual and customers can continue to shop in the stores and online. There are no immediate changes to Dressbarn's return, refund or gift card policies.

Dressbarn's Pittsburgh-area stores include:

• Cranberry - Cranberry Mall.
• Monroeville Mall - Miracle Mile Shopping Center.
• North Fayette - Plaza at the Pointe.
• Greensburg - Westmoreland Mall.
• Washington - Tanger Outlets.