Kirkland’s looks to ‘right size’ store base; makes exec changes

Kirkland’s is closing some stores as part of a larger streamlining effort to transform its business to a more profitable model. 

The home décor retailer said it has further reduced expenses at its corporate office and is planning to close 27 stores in early 2020, with the potential for further closings later in the year as part of its goal to “right size” its store base. Kirkland’s currently operates 432 stores in 37 states. 

The home décor retailer also announced it has “mutually parted ways” with president and COO Michael Cairnes. Kirkland’s CEO, Woody Woodward, will add the role of president and will oversee operations in addition to his ongoing responsibilities across merchandising and marketing.

Also, the company has promoted John Stacy, currently VP of supply chain, to senior VP of supply chain, and Jeff Martin, currently VP of transformation, to senior VP of omnichannel retail. Stacy will continue to lead initiatives focusing on supply chain and direct sourcing and Martin will oversee store and e-commerce operations.

“These moves reflect steps to streamline the organization and further accelerate our initiatives to transform the business to a more profitable model," said Woodward. "As we have outlined, our plan includes efforts to improve the relevancy and quality of our merchandise assortment, to operate with greater efficiency, and to lower our cost of goods as we evolve to a true omnichannel model that reinforces Kirkland's value heritage.”