Rue21 To Close Idaho Location As Company Downsizing Continues

Struggles continue for a popular women's clothing and accessory chain that has suffered a large number of closures nationwide in the past five years.

Rue21, LLC, formerly known as Pennsylvania Fashions, which has operated hundreds of locations in the United States for over 50 years, has announced the closure of one of its Idaho stores. The Lewiston store, located at 2626 Nez Perce Drive, will be closing in the coming weeks, according to information shared by klewnews.

The closure will leave Idaho with just five locations, those being in Idaho Falls, Chubbuck, Burley, Boise and here, in Twin Falls. The Twin Falls store is located at the Magic Valley Mall.

The company filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2017, and currently operates more than 500 locations in 43 states. An announcement was made by the company, that same year, that 400 stores were on the chopping block. The store's merchandise includes jeans, shoes, tops and accessories, including plus sizes, which the company introduced six years ago.

I attempted to reach out to the store location at the Magic Valley on Tuesday, and was redirected to the corporate office, in which I still haven't heard back on if any further closures statewide are planned. Following the 2017 bankruptcy, the company was purchased and divided among private investors.

In 2018, rue21 partnered with The Garment Project, and introduced new sizes to promote a healthy lifestyle, while also attempting to cater to women struggling with eating disorders. Prior to the announcement of the 2017 closures, the company was reporting annual earnings of more than $220 million on average.