News Summary
Massachusetts sees a transformation in its retail scene, highlighted by Starbucks closing five locations to streamline operations and L.L. Bean expanding with a new store aimed at improving customer access to outdoor apparel. Starbucks’ closures reflect broader market adjustments, while L.L. Bean’s upcoming store in Framingham marks a commitment to local employment and services, also spotlighting a new sports club and an emergency pet care facility in the region.
Massachusetts is witnessing significant changes in its business landscape, highlighted by the impending closure of five Starbucks locations and the expansion of L.L. Bean, among others. Starbucks’ decision to close locations is a strategic move to refocus its operations while L.L. Bean aims to enhance customer access to outdoor apparel in the region.
Starbucks will close five of its 300 locations in Massachusetts, including one in Boston, three in Cambridge, and one in Somerville. This decision aligns with CEO Brian Niccol’s vision for a company turnaround outlined in a letter to employees. The closures exemplify Starbucks’ ongoing efforts to streamline operations amidst changing market dynamics.
On a more positive note, L.L. Bean is set to open its 12th Massachusetts store in November at Fresh Market Plaza, located at 84 Worcester Rd. in Framingham. The new store will span over 20,000 square feet and is focused on offering a comprehensive selection of outdoor-inspired apparel and footwear for all seasons. L.L. Bean plans to invest over $2 million in renovations to enhance the shopping experience at this location.
As part of the new store’s opening, L.L. Bean is hiring up to 85 employees for various positions, including Store Team Leads and Sales Associates. Job applications are available online, reflecting the company’s commitment to supporting local employment opportunities.
On September 12, Boston United, a new sporting club, opened its doors at 110 Andrew Ave in Wayland, Massachusetts. The club provides facilities for popular sports such as Pickleball and volleyball, aiming to cater to a diverse skill range from beginners to seasoned players.
In another notable development, a 24/7 emergency room for pets, VEG ER for Pets, has launched in Peabody on Sylvan Street. The facility offers urgent care, surgeries, ultrasounds, and X-rays for pets, significantly improving access to critical veterinary services in the region.
The upcoming L.L. Bean store in Framingham will enhance local access to outdoor gear and apparel favorites, fulfilling the company’s aim of better serving the MetroWest area. This stores’ opening marks a significant milestone as it will be L.L. Bean’s first dedicated location to directly serve this community. Currently, the company operates 11 other stores across Massachusetts, surpassing its home state of Maine, which has only eight locations.
The expansion aligns with L.L. Bean’s recent report of $1.7 billion in net revenue for 2024, maintaining figures comparable to those from 2023. The company’s financial stability has resulted in employee incentives, including a 6.5% performance bonus that encompasses both cash bonuses and contributions to employees’ 401(k) plans.
In summary, the Massachusetts business sector is evolving with Starbucks making strategic changes reflective of the broader market landscape, while L.L. Bean and other entities are expanding to meet local demands. These developments showcase the dynamic nature of retail and service provision in the state.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- MetroWest Daily News: L.L. Bean Opening 12th MA Location
- Patch: L.L. Bean Open New Store in MA City
- Boston 25 News: L.L. Bean Open 12th Massachusetts Location
- MetroWest Daily News: L.L. Bean Plans Framingham MA Store
- Wikipedia
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
