Here are the four major retail chains shrinking their Idaho footprint in February.
1. GameStop
The Headline: A sharp reduction in Nampa and Post Falls. Video game retailer GameStop is starting 2026 with a significant "fleet optimization" strategy that includes closing over 400 stores nationwide. Idaho is taking a direct hit in this wave, with confirmed closures in both the northern and southern parts of the state.
- Confirmed Closures: The list includes the store on North Cecil Road in Post Falls and the location on East Franklin Road in Nampa.
- The Vibe: These closures continue the company's pivot away from physical retail density. For gamers in Post Falls, this removes a primary dedicated video game store, forcing locals to rely on big-box retailers or digital downloads.
2. Eddie Bauer Outlet
The Headline: The final goodbye for the Boise Factory Outlets. It is the end of an era for the Boise Factory Outlets. After years of decline and vacancy, the remaining tenants are finally vacating to make way for the property's demolition and redevelopment. The Eddie Bauer Outlet—one of the last holdouts—is closing its doors for good.
- The Situation: With demolition permits pending for the site, the store is clearing out all remaining inventory.
- The Impact: This closure effectively marks the death of the "Factory Outlet" mall as Boise residents knew it, ending decades of bargain hunting on the edge of town.
3. Francesca's
The Headline: The boutique chain exits the malls. The women's clothing boutique Francesca's is executing a massive pullback in 2026 following financial restructuring. Reports indicate the chain is shuttering its brick-and-mortar operations, impacting its prime Idaho locations.
- Locations to Watch: The boutiques at Boise Towne Square and The Village at Meridian are in their final wind-down phase.
- The Deal: Shoppers can expect "storewide" liquidation sales throughout February as the brand attempts to clear inventory before handing over the keys.
4. Forever 21
The Headline: A fast-fashion giant leaves Boise Towne Square. In a major blow to the teen retail scene, Forever 21 is exiting the Idaho market. Following a new bankruptcy filing, the fast-fashion retailer has flagged its massive Boise Towne Square location for closure.
- The Status: As a key anchor for the mall's younger demographic, this departure leaves a significant vacancy (over 15,000 square feet) to fill.
- The Reality: February serves as the liquidation month, with deep discounts on the remaining stock of trendy apparel and accessories before the gates come down permanently.
February 2026 marks a significant turning point for Idaho retail, defined by the collapse of "mall culture" staples. The exit of Forever 21 and Francesca's leaves noticeable gaps in the State premier shopping centers (Boise Towne Square and The Village at Meridian). Simultaneously, the closure of GameStop locations in Nampa and Post Falls reflects the broader shift to digital gaming. Finally, the shuttering of the Eddie Bauer Outlet is perhaps the most symbolic, serving as the final nail in the coffin for the Boise Factory Outlets and clearing the way for new industrial development.