Clothing chain Bob’s Stores closing after 70 years

Bob’s Stores, a longtime Northeast clothing store chain, announced this week that it is shutting down after it failed to secure financing amid a bankruptcy filing.

Through July 14, all remaining Bob’s locations will offer liquidation-level discounts on the stores’ trademark work wear, footwear, team wear and everyday family-oriented clothing. Selected store fixtures, furniture and equipment will also be available for sale.

Gift cards and merchandise credits will be honored through the close of business on July 14, the company said. All sales are final, and no returns will be accepted, though exchanges will be. Bob’s listed 21 stores in its announcement.

Founded in 1954, Bob’s began as a single-store surplus outlet in Connecticut. It eventually expanded into three dozen locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island.

But at the beginning of this century, Bob’s entered a period of financial turmoil that it never truly recovered from, ultimately becoming involved in four different bankruptcy proceedings, including this latest one, and changing hands five different times.

In a statement, Bob’s President Dave Barton acknowledged the chain’s history in the region.

“We regret that our financial position necessitated the liquidation of Bob’s Stores,’ he said. ‘Bob’s has been a stalwart of our local communities for nearly 70 years, and we know our customers remember us as having been there for major moments in their lives. We remain grateful to our vendors, suppliers, customers and employees for all of their support over the years.”

Bob’s closure comes alongside troubles for its sister retailer, Eastern Mountain Sports. Both are owned by GoDigital Media Group, a conglomerate. EMS announced store closures last month alongside its intention to vacate its headquarters in Connecticut.