77-year-old popular furniture retailer closes store locations

Core Insights - The furniture retail sector is facing significant economic challenges, leading to store closures and business shutdowns among several retailers due to rising costs and inflationary pressures [1][2]. Industry Overview - Economic distress has prompted some furniture retailers, such as Outten Brothers Home Furnishings and New Deal Furniture, to close their businesses [2]. - The furniture industry has experienced volatility, with new orders declining by 9% in June 2025 compared to May, followed by a 6% increase in July [2]. Order and Shipment Trends - Year-to-date new orders are down 1% through July 2025 compared to the same period in 2024 [3]. - Furniture shipments declined by 2% in July 2025 compared to June, but increased by 3% compared to July 2024 [3][8]. Employment and Inventory - Employee levels have seen a gradual decline over the last six months, indicating companies are not rushing to replace departing staff [5]. - Inventories and payroll levels remain consistent with recent months and 2024, despite the drop in employees [5]. Company-Specific Developments - American Signature Furniture is closing all four of its Nashville-area stores as part of a restructuring effort to focus on top-performing regions [6][7]. - The company operates 122 stores across 17 states and employs over 3,200 workers, but has not disclosed specific layoffs related to the Tennessee closures [9][10]. - Store closing sales are currently underway, offering discounts of 20% to 40% on various home furnishings [11]. Strategic Decisions - The closure of stores in Nashville is described as a strategic business decision aimed at long-term growth priorities [12].