A.C. Moore to close its retail stores

BERLIN, N.J. (KIFI/KIDK) - Nicole Crafts, the parent company of A.C. Moore Arts and Crafts, has decided to exit its retail operations and sell its A.C. Moore stores, according to a news release Monday.

A.C. Moore, based in Berlin, New Jersey, bought the Porter's craft stores in Idaho Falls and Rexburg recently. They are the only western state stores in the company's stable.

Nicole Crafts will retain its retail and real divisions to close the A.C. Moore stores.

Anthony Piperno, Chief Executive Officer of A.C. Moore said, "For over 30 years, our stores have been servicing the creative community with a vast selection of art and craft materials, with one common focus, the customer. Unfortunately, given the headwinds facing many retailers in today's environment, it made it very difficult for us to operate and compete on a National level. During this process, we will continue to provide great customer experience, while still delivering quality and value on your favorite products. Plans for closing specific A.C. Moore locations will be shared in the upcoming weeks on our website. While we will stop accepting further online orders as of today, we will ship any previously placed orders in the ordinary course."

The Michaels Companies Inc. will assume leases for up to 40 store locations and lease an east coast distribution facility. Michaels CEO Mark Crosby said, "This transaction enables us to further expand our presence in strategic markets and serve even more customers both online and in store. We are looking forward to re-opening these stores under the Michael's name in 2020 and welcoming new team members."

Plans for closing specific A.C. Moore locations will be announced in the near future.

The company will stop accepting further online orders as of today but will ship any previously placed orders in the ordinary course of business.