Is Duluth Trading Closing? What’s Really Going On with the Retailer

Introduction

Rumours are swirling that Duluth Trading Company—a retailer known for its workwear, accessories and the trademark “No Bull Guarantee”—may be shutting down operations. With online chatter, trending search terms and some store closures, many are asking: Is Duluth Trading really closing?
In this article we dive into the facts: what the company has announced, what store closures or reductions mean, what the financials show, and what it all implies for customers, investors and the brand’s future.

What We Know: The Facts

Store & Distribution Centre Closures

Duluth announced the closure of its Dubuque, Iowa distribution centre, which saw about 74 jobs affected. https://www.kcrg.com
One location in Danbury (The Shops at Marcus Dairy) is set to close after 10 years, as the company chose not to renew the lease. News-Times
The closure of individual stores or warehouses does not mean the entire company is going out of business—but it does signal a shift in operations.

Workforce Reductions

On 4 June 2025 the parent company, Duluth Holdings Inc., announced a 3% reduction in workforce, amounting to 51 corporate employees. Fox21Online
The move was described as part of a “business simplification” plan, rather than a liquidation plan.

Financial & Operational Metrics

Duluth remains publicly traded and has issued updates to investors.
According to one detailed review: “No, Duluth Trading Company is not going out of business.” duluthtradingcompanyreview.com
The firm disclosed enough liquidity and ongoing operations to continue trading and serving customers.
Nonetheless, like many retailers, the company is facing headwinds: declining net sales, challenging foot traffic and macro pressures. (See related news articles) wsj.com+1

Why the “Closing” Rumours?

Several factors have contributed to the perception that Duluth is shutting down:

Online ads and “store closing” sale listings that turn out to be fake. One review specifically flags malicious ads claiming massive “closing down” discounts, which the company says are not legitimate. duluthtradingcompanyreview.com
Store or facility closures are highly visible and easily misinterpreted as evidence of a full company shutdown.
Public financial pressure: weak sales, margin pressure and strategic changes often trigger speculation.
Search-term spikes: Many consumers are clicking terms like “duluth trading company closing”, “duluth trading store closing sale”, contributing to a feedback loop.

What the Company Says & Strategic Direction

Duluth appears to be in a transition, not a collapse. The company is pursuing cost-saving measures, simplifying operations and refocusing on its core brand. duluthtradingcompanyreview.com+1
The company confirms it remains open and operating: its web-store is live, many physical stores remain open, and new store openings or refurbishments are reportedly in the pipeline. duluthtradingcompanyreview.com
The “No Bull Guarantee” remains a cornerstone of the brand. duluthtradingcompanyreview.com

What It Means for Customers & Investors

For Customers

If you’re shopping at Duluth: the brand is still active; you may still find in-store or online services.
Be cautious of fraudulent “closing sale” ads: check for official announcements, verify URLs and avoid deals that seem too good to be true. duluthtradingcompanyreview.com
Expect potential changes: store closures or renovations may alter your local experience; inventory & promotions may shift.

For Investors

The company is dealing with industry-wide pressures (retail foot traffic, online competition, consumer spending).
Operational downsizing and consolidation are not the same as bankruptcy—they may be survival strategies.
Monitor guidance, earnings releases and major strategic announcements for signs of turnaround or further distress.

Final Verdict

Is Duluth Trading Company closing?
No — there’s no confirmed plan to shut down the brand entirely. What is happening: a period of restructuring, consolidation and strategic change in response to a challenging retail environment.
Store closures and layoffs are real, but they reflect change not collapse. Customers and investors should view the brand as in transition, rather than heading for shutdown.

Key Takeaways

Duluth Trading is not going out of business, despite rumours.
Several closures (warehouses, stores) are underway, but operations continue.
Workforce reductions and strategic restructuring aim to streamline the business.
Customers should verify deal authenticity; investors should watch strategic signals.
The brand remains alive, but the shape of its operations may change.