Apple has announced the permanent closure of its Northbrook Court store in Chicago. The decision comes as the shopping mall faces ongoing challenges, with several major retailers already shutting down their locations.
In a statement, an Apple spokesperson explained the move:
“At Apple, we’re always focused on providing an exceptional experience for all of our customers. With the evolving redevelopment plans at Northbrook Court and the departure of several retailers, we have made the difficult decision to close our store there.”
Apple has not specified an exact closing date, but sources suggest it may shut down later in 2025, marking 20 years since its initial opening.
Northbrook Court’s Struggles and Redevelopment Plans
The Northbrook Court shopping mall, once a thriving retail hub, has seen numerous store closures in recent years. Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, and Lululemon have all exited, leaving a significant vacancy in the mall.
To counter the decline, the mall’s owner, Brookfield Property Partners, has committed $825 million to a redevelopment project. The plan includes:
- Transforming part of the mall into a high-end retail destination.
- Donating space for an affordable housing complex.
- Attracting new businesses and investors.
Despite these efforts, Apple’s decision to leave raises concerns about the mall’s ability to retain major brands.
What Happens to Apple Employees?
Apple has assured that Northbrook store employees will retain their jobs. While the company hasn’t provided details, it’s likely that affected employees will be offered positions at one of Chicago’s other eight Apple Stores.
Historically, Apple rarely shuts down stores without relocating. The Northbrook closure is among a handful of permanent shutdowns, following the closures of its Atlantic City, Royal Hawaiian, and MacArthur Center stores in recent years.
Final Thoughts
The closure of Apple Northbrook highlights the challenges facing traditional shopping malls. As Apple continues to expand in other locations, struggling malls like Northbrook Court must adapt to survive. Whether the mall’s redevelopment plan will bring long-term success remains to be seen.
