Eddie Bauer Files for Bankruptcy, All California Stores to Close

The outdoor retailer could not find a qualified buyer during its bankruptcy auction.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Eddie Bauer LLC, the outerwear retailer, has filed for bankruptcy and will be shuttering all of its 13 store locations across California. The company was unable to find a qualified bidder during its bankruptcy auction, leading to the closure of its California stores, including locations in Corte Madera, Fresno, and San Clemente. While the Eddie Bauer brand may continue through e-commerce and wholesale partnerships, the brick-and-mortar stores in the state will be permanently closed.

Why it matters

The closure of Eddie Bauer's California stores is the latest sign of the ongoing struggles facing traditional retail, especially apparel and specialty chains, as they contend with the shift to online shopping and changing consumer preferences. The bankruptcy filing marks the third time the 102-year-old brand has sought Chapter 11 protection, underscoring the challenges even iconic outdoor retailers face in the current economic climate.

The details

Eddie Bauer filed for bankruptcy in February 2026, at which point it was possible the stores could remain open under new ownership if a buyer was found. However, the company was unable to attract a qualified bidder during the bankruptcy auction process, leading to the decision to shutter all 13 of its California locations. The stores were advertising liquidation sales on remaining inventory as they prepare to close permanently. While the Eddie Bauer brand and intellectual property will live on through e-commerce and wholesale partnerships, the brick-and-mortar retail footprint in California will be eliminated.

  • Eddie Bauer filed for bankruptcy in February 2026.
  • The company's California store locations will be closing permanently following the failed bankruptcy auction.

The players

Eddie Bauer LLC

The outerwear retailer that has filed for bankruptcy and is shuttering all of its 13 store locations across California.

Authentic Brands Group

The company that owns the Eddie Bauer intellectual property and plans to focus on the brand's 'elite performance line' through a partnership with Outdoor 5, a licensing partner.

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What they’re saying

“In partnership with Outdoor 5, we are excited to put a spotlight on the brand pillars that have always defined Eddie Bauer: quality, functionality, and outdoor innovation. We are also proud to announce the return of First Ascent, one of Eddie Bauer's elite, performance-tested lines. Our focus is on Eddie Bauer's roots in the outdoors while expanding its digital and wholesale reach to meet adventure-seeking consumers wherever they choose to shop.”

— David Brooks, Vice President, Authentic Brands Group (Press Release)

What’s next

The closure of Eddie Bauer's California stores is expected to be completed in the coming weeks as the company liquidates its remaining inventory.

The takeaway

The bankruptcy and store closures of Eddie Bauer, a once-iconic outdoor apparel brand, highlight the ongoing challenges facing traditional brick-and-mortar retailers as consumer shopping habits continue to shift towards e-commerce and online sales. This latest development underscores the need for retailers to adapt their business models to meet the evolving demands of the modern marketplace.