Sneaker brand WSS closes over 50 stores following Foot Locker acquisition
Dick’s Sporting Goods, which acquired the sneaker retailer Foot Locker in recent years, has shuttered more than 50 locations of its smaller WSS brand. The closures are part of a broader restructuring effort as Dick's shifts focus to higher-performing store formats and brands within its portfolio. WSS specializes in discounted athletic and casual footwear from major labels like Nike and Adidas but appears to be underperforming compared to other segments managed by the company. In contrast, Dick’s has been expanding experiential retail concepts such as House of Sport locations that feature interactive elements like running tracks and batting cages. These newer formats have driven higher foot traffic per square footage than traditional stores. The Foot Locker brand itself also faced store closures in 2026 due to challenges with product launches and retro silhouettes, though Dick’s has taken steps to improve performance through initiatives such as Fast Break remodeling.
Topics: Dick's Sporting Goods Foot Locker retail store closures WSS