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Saugatuck Today
By the People, for the People
West Michigan Women's Clothing Boutique Closes After 20 Years
Lee & Birch, a local retail chain, cites challenges facing small businesses as reason for shutting down.
Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:19pm
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Lee & Birch, a women's clothing retailer with locations across West Michigan, has announced it is closing down after 20 years in business. Owner Nikki Dykstra-Gillette cited the difficulties facing small retailers as the primary reason for the closure, despite her attempts to turn the business around. The company had grown to six stores and around 40 employees at its peak.
Why it matters
The closure of Lee & Birch highlights the ongoing challenges facing small, independent retailers in the face of competition from larger chains and the shift to online shopping. This is a common story playing out in many communities as local businesses struggle to adapt and survive.
The details
Lee & Birch had locations in Grand Haven, Rockford, Saugatuck, and St. Joseph. Owner Nikki Dykstra-Gillette said she tried everything she could to turn the business around, but the current challenges facing small retail businesses made it impossible. She noted that while closing the business has been difficult, it will also allow her to spend more time with her family and figure out her next steps.
- Lee & Birch opened its first location 20 years ago.
- The business reached its peak with six stores and around 40 employees.
The players
Nikki Dykstra-Gillette
The owner of Lee & Birch, a women's clothing retailer that has closed after 20 years in business.
Lee & Birch
A women's clothing retailer with locations across West Michigan that has closed down after 20 years in business.
What they’re saying
“There have been many ups and downs over the years. I've always said owning a business is like a roller coaster ride. Unfortunately, this time the ride went a little too low and we just can't make it back up the hill.”
— Nikki Dykstra-Gillette, Owner
“Despite trying everything I could to turn things around, the challenges facing small retail businesses right now have made it impossible.”
— Nikki Dykstra-Gillette, Owner
The takeaway
The closure of Lee & Birch is a sobering reminder of the difficulties facing small, independent retailers in the current economic climate. As consumer habits and the retail landscape continue to evolve, local businesses must find innovative ways to adapt and survive in order to maintain the unique character and vibrancy of their communities.
