Thom McAn retail stores were discontinued in the mid-1990s by parent company Melville Corp., with most locations closing by 1996 as Melville shifted focus to CVS Pharmacy and Footaction, though the brand still exists today sold through Kmart and Walmart stores via Meldisco/Footstar. The closures reflected industry trends, with competition from trendier stores and imports impacting sales, leading to the end of the iconic mall shoe retailer.

Key Dates & Changes:

1980s: Melville began phasing out factories and closing some Thom McAn stores.

1992: Thom McAn had fewer than 730 stores, with plans to close 350 more.

1996: The last standalone Thom McAn retail stores closed, with some converted to Footaction.

Post-Closure: The brand's shoes appeared in Kmart and later Walmart, operated by Meldisco (part of Footstar).

Why They Closed:

Competition: Increased competition from more modern, trendy retailers hurt sales.

Corporate Shift: Melville wanted to focus on its pharmacy business, divesting from footwear.

Industry Changes: The retail landscape shifted, and older formats struggled to adapt.