Kmart closed 2k+ stores since 2005. What’s happened with its retail space?

Former Kmarts now house labs, churches, and more.

Singdhi Sokpo (The Hustle)

Kmart closed 2k+ stores since 2005. What’s happened with its retail space?

In 2005, Kmart had 2,085 locations. Today, it’s got 17. In all, ~230m square feet worth of Kmarts have shut.

What’s happened with all that space?

A lot. Former Kmarts now house flea markets, labs, dealerships, driving schools, and funeral homes. One site houses a large Baptist church, a bowling alley, and soon, a call center. Another in California will house a weed farm.

On another note, remember Kmart’s “ship my pants” commercial?

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