The Louisiana Boardwalk in Bossier City is set to experience another business closure, as a franchise store located at 510 Boardwalk Blvd has confirmed it will permanently close its doors on April 15, 2025.
An employee from the store verified that no clearance sales are planned; instead, any unsold inventory will be transferred to other operational locations in the vicinity.
This impending closure adds to a series of recent business departures from the Louisiana Boardwalk.
In May 2023, the Nike Factory Store announced its permanent closure, with representatives indicating the shutdown would occur within two weeks of the announcement.
Similarly, in May 2024, the clothing retailer rue21 filed for bankruptcy and declared the closure of all 541 of its retail locations, including the one at the Boardwalk.
The trend of closures continued into mid-2024, with reports indicating that additional stores such as Skechers and Express were expected to cease operations by the end of that month.
These successive closures have raised concerns about the viability and future of the Louisiana Boardwalk as a thriving retail destination.
Established in 2005, the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets is an outdoor shopping center that combines retail shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Located between the Horseshoe Bossier City and Margaritaville Resort Casino, it has been one of the largest outlet malls in Louisiana, boasting over fifty outlet stores, restaurants, and an IMAX theater.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted customer attendance levels, leading to a decline in foot traffic and subsequent store closures. The departure of prominent retailers like Nike and rue21 has further exacerbated concerns about the Boardwalk’s ability to maintain its status as a premier shopping destination.
As more businesses close their doors, the future of the Louisiana Boardwalk remains uncertain. Stakeholders and the local community are left to question how much longer the Boardwalk can continue to function effectively amidst these ongoing challenges.
