Struggling fast-fashion giant Forever 21 is urging customers to redeem gift cards immediately, with all balances set to expire on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, as part of its second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in six years. The retailer, once a mall staple, will shutter all 350+ U.S.
stores by May 1 unless a buyer emerges, marking a dramatic retreat amid fierce competition from overseas rivals like Shein and Temu . Key Details for Shoppers Gift Cards & Returns: All Forever 21 gift cards and store credits expired
after April 15. The company ceased accepting returns, exchanges, and issuing new gift cards on April 14. Final Sales: All purchases—online and in-store—are now final. Liquidation discounts of 30–50% are ongoing at remaining locations.
Store Closures: Locations in Connecticut, California, Pennsylvania, Idaho, and North Dakota have already closed. A full list of closures is available via the store locator .
Bankruptcy and Market Pressures Forever 21’s parent company, F21 OpCo, filed for Chapter 11 protection in March 2025, citing: Foreign Competition: Shein and Temu’s tariff-free advantages under the de minimis exemption (goods under $800 incur no duties).
Rising Costs: Inflation, supply chain disruptions, and shifting consumer trends toward sustainable fashion. Financial Strain: The retailer previously filed for bankruptcy in 2019 and was acquired by Authentic Brands Group , Simon Property Group , and Brookfield Asset Management…
