Dressbarn Closing All Stores

Dressbarn, the women's clothing chain is closing all its stores. Ascena Retail Group announced the closure of about 650 stores late Monday, saying the "wind-down" would help the company focus on its more profitable brands. There is one store in Howell, NJ near Kohls and  one in Jackson at the premium outlets mall.

 "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, the company's chief financial officer, said in a statement.



In a separate statement, the company called the move "another significant step taken to advance Ascena's ongoing transformation."

The New Jersey-based women's retailer also owns Ann Taylor, LOFT, Lane Bryant, Lou & Grey, Catherines, Cacique and Justice. The company sold its Maurice brand earlier this month.
 NPR