The last full-scale Kmart in the continental US is set to close Sunday in Bridgehampton, New York, marking the end of an era for the once-iconic retailer. Known for its “Blue Light Specials”—flash discount announcements—and celebrity partnerships, the chain struggled over the years to compete with Walmart, Target, and online retailers.
Founded in 1899 as SS Kresge—the first Kmart branch opened in 1962—it was a pioneer in discount retailing. At its peak in the 1980s, annual revenues exceeded $36B with over 2,000 stores. By 1986, the store was the second-largest retailer, behind Sears. Kmart eventually filed for bankruptcy in 2002 and again in 2018, largely due to mismanagement, failed acquisitions, outdated locations, and failure to adapt to online shopping trends. After merging with Sears in 2005, both brands suffered losses, and Kmart’s remaining stores gradually closed.
Only a small Kmart outlet in Miami and a few locations in Guam and the US Virgin Islands remain.
