The Sears at Penhorn Mall has announced it will be shutting its doors in September 2017.
Last month, Sears Canada reported a $91.6 million loss in its latest quarter, which resulted in a warning from the chain and department store that cuts could be on the way.
Now the national retailer is cutting deeper by increasing its 2016 cost-cutting targets in an ongoing effort to return to profitability.
The company says the timing is right for the closure of the Penhorm Mall location.
"The current lease on Penhorn Mall store expires September 2017 and last week we announced to our associates there that we would not be renewing the lease on that location," said a spokesperson in a statement.
Reaction from shoppers today is mixed, which seems to be part of the company's problem.
"It’s very unfortunate,” said one customer. “It’s a staple in Dartmouth, been here so many years and they have good quality clothes. It’s a sad day.”
The closure will leave 73 employees without work. According to the company, the workers will be given first opportunity to fill job openings at the Halifax Shopping Centre location.
The beleaguered retailer hopes for a busy holiday shopping season ahead, but continues to struggle to adapt in a rapidly changing retail landscape.
Sears Canada adds they will be rolling out a campaign to encourage their Penhorn Mall customers to head to their Halifax location. They’re also revamping their website to make it easier to shop from home.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Marie Adsett.
