Major retail chain closes dozens of stores nationwide, citing ‘unprecedented’ tariffs

Major outdoor retail chain Orvis is closing more than half its stores across the country as it grapples with an “unprecedented tariff landscape.”

The 169-year-old retailer will close 36 locations nationwide by early 2026 as it navigates financial challenges and refocuses its brand.

The closures will include 31 retail stores and five outlet locations, reducing the company’s physical store presence by almost half.

Orvis’ president, Simon Perkins, told Fox Business that the decision is a response to mounting economic pressures.

“Like many in retail, Orvis’ business model faced a sizeable shift with the introduction of an unprecedented tariff landscape,” Perkins told the outlet, referring to tariffs implemented by President Donald Trump.

He added that the closures are necessary to “ensure a durable brand and model for decades to come.”

The Vermont-based company was founded in 1856 by Charles F. Orvis as a fly-fishing retailer.

Over the years, Orvis expanded its product line to include sportswear, fine gifts, home furnishings, luggage and travel accessories.

However, the company announced plans to shift its product focus back to its origins, according to a statement obtained by Fox Business.

“We’re stepping into an exciting new chapter — one focused on our core passions of fly fishing and wingshooting,” Perkins said.

“This return to our roots is a renewed dedication to innovation, a commitment to our angling and upland communities, and to the wild places we love.”

The company has not announced which of its more than 70 locations will be closing or how many employees will be affected by the closures.

To date, Orvis employs an estimated 1,500 people.

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