Hanford Mall major tenant, Forever 21, to close on its doors April 1 due to downsizing

Approximately 50 persons will be laid off as a result of the closure. The closure is an apparent result of downsizing within the 500-store chain which operates facilities in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Asia, Europe and Latin America.

The chain was founded in 1984 by the current CEO Do Won Chang and his wife Jin Sook Chang. The store was originally called Fashion 21 and targeted middle aged women. In 1989 the company opened its 11th store and in 1995 the first store outside of California was opened in Miami, Florida. By 1997 there were 40 stores and Forever 21 currently operates over 500 stores.

The Hanford Forever 21 store is one of four large anchor tenants at the Hanford Mall and is currently owned by the Los Angeles-based teen retailer. The property is for sale for $4 million according to industry experts.

Forever 21 acquired the Hanford site when Gottschalks went through bankruptcy in 2009.

Recently the large anchor store in San Luis Obispo recently closed its doors as well. The store in San Luis Obispo employed 72 persons who were given an opportunity to work at other stores or be laid off.

The Leader attempted to contact Forever 21's corporate office, but did not get a response. The local Forever 21's manager forwarded The Leader to the corporate office.