10 Abandoned Retail Chains That Still Exist Online
Some once-busy stores may have vanished from malls and shopping plazas, but their names still live on through websites. These former giants now operate exclusively in the digital world, often surprising people who thought they had long since disappeared. Their online comeback shows how retail is changing, even when the storefronts have disappeared.
- Tricia Quitales
- 3 min read
Retail has gone through a major shift, leaving behind many well-known chains that once ruled shopping centers. While their physical stores closed down, a few of these brands quietly found new life online. Some were bought and revived by other companies, while others rebranded their digital presence. Here are 10 retail chains that shut their doors in the real world but still exist today on the internet.
1. Circuit City
Circuit City Stores, Inc. on Wikimedia
Circuit City was once a top electronics store before closing all its locations in 2009. Years later, the brand was revived online with a new website selling tech gadgets and accessories. It now serves customers only through e-commerce.
2. Borders
hmed on Pexels
Known for its books and coffee shop vibe, Borders disappeared from the retail scene in 2011. However, its name still exists online through a relaunched site offering books and media. Although it may no longer have physical stores, the brand continues to thrive digitally.
3. Toys “R” Us
Toys “R” Us on Wikimedia
The famous toy chain closed many stores but made a small comeback online. Its website was revived through partnerships and now links to toy deals and content from its parent company. The brand continues to attract nostalgic shoppers.
4. Linens ‘n Things
Unknown author on Wikimedia
Once a go-to for home goods and bedding, Linens ‘n Things closed its stores in the late 2000s. The brand name was bought and turned into an online-only retailer. It still sells similar products without any physical locations.
5. RadioShack
RadioShack on Wikimedia
RadioShack faded from shopping centers after decades in the electronics industry. It now operates as an online store, offering tech parts, batteries, and gadgets. While much smaller than before, it still retains its loyal hobbyists and tinkerers.
6. Pier 1 Imports
Unknown author on Wikimedia
Known for furniture and home décor, Pier 1 shut down its stores during financial troubles. Its name and website were bought and relaunched as an online brand. Shoppers can still browse for rugs, candles, and stylish accents online.
7. Blockbuster
Blockbuster Entertainment, Inc. on Wikimedia
Blockbuster is nearly gone except for one remaining store, but its website still exists with merchandise and streaming history content. Some online efforts have kept the name alive in creative ways. It’s more of a nostalgic brand than a full business now.
8. Stein Mart
Collis on Pexels
This discount department store shut its doors in 2020 after declaring bankruptcy. It was quickly brought back online by a new owner and now runs as a digital-only fashion retailer. The website offers a familiar mix of clothing, shoes, and accessories.
9. Payless
Payless on Wikimedia
Payless shoe stores once filled malls across the country before closing most of them. The brand made a return online with a fully stocked e-commerce site. It continues to serve budget-conscious customers without the overhead of physical stores.
10. Dressbarn
Markus Winkler on Pexels
Dressbarn shut down its physical stores in 2019 but didn’t disappear entirely. Its website stayed active under new ownership, offering the same women’s clothing styles. The brand found a second life through online sales and digital marketing.