Chesapeake, Va. - It's the beginning of the end for some Macy's stores. 40 stores across the country are shutting down for good, including three in Hampton Roads.
Clearance sales start Monday. Some business owners say they're worried it will be the last time they see crowds of shoppers like they're used to seeing.
Gerald Richardson, co-owner of Twisted Dragon inside Chesapeake Square Mall, says Macy's is one of the biggest reasons people come to the mall. The news that it's closing isn't sitting well.
"It's shocking, you know, definitely we know it's going to impact the mall. Sales has been slow recently. Even with the holiday sales, it's been less than expected, so with the news of Macy's closing we know it's definitely going to impact our business," said Richardson.
Along with the location at Chesapeake Square Mall, the Macy's stores at Peninsula Town Center in Hampton and Military Circle Mall in Norfolk will also be closing.
The retailer says they're forced to shut down 40 stores across the country because of disappointing sales last year.
Danica Melton was out shopping Sunday and says she plans to come back Monday when the sale starts before she has to drive far to get to a Macy's.
"I actually live out in Suffolk, so this is the closest mall. And of course, the Macy's is closing in Hampton too, and that would be the next closest," Melton told NewsChannel 3.
So while the announcement may bring big business for now, Richardson says they are starting to explore their options for new locations once Macy's is gone.
"We're nervous," Richardson said, but also added, "we're here for the time being, come out and visit us."
NewsChannel 3 reached out to the Chesapeake Square Mall management several days ago. They didn't give a straight answer but did say that they will continue to offer shoppers a compelling mix of nationally and locally-owned retailers.
As for the sales at Macy's, they are supposed to start Monday and run through mid-March.
