Toys R Us plans to shutter about 20% of its U.S. store fleet, saying "tough decisions" are needed to reinvent their brands. USA TODAY
PORT ST. LUCIE — The Landing at Tradition could lose its third major retailer in nearly two years.
First, Sports Authority closed in June 2016, then the plaza’s OfficeMax was shuttered that November and now Babies R Us could follow.
Parent company Toys R Us filed court documents late Tuesday which included plans to close up to 182 stores including the Babies R Us at 10732 S.W. Village Parkway, as part of its bankruptcy reorganization.
Ten other Florida stores are on the closing list including two in Palm Beach County.
The closing sales could begin in early February and the majority of locations could close in mid-April, Toys R Us Chief Executive Dave Brandon said in a letter posted on the company's website.
In his letter, Brandon said the company is looking to reinvent itself and also intends to convert a number of locations into combined Toys R Us and Babies R Us stores.
More: Bankruptcy fallout: Toys R Us closing up to 182 stores
But the closings aren't a done deal.
The closings are pending court approval and some may be avoided if Toys R Us is able to negotiate more favorable lease terms. The lease for the Port St. Lucie store ends March 31, court documents show.
Although the former Sports Authority and OfficeMax spots have had temporary tenants such as Halloween stores, the spaces still are vacant.
This is why I don't expect the Babies R Us location to be spared from closing.
And while the Toys R Us in Jensen Beach was not included on the closings list, if the empty parking lot Wednesday afternoon is any indication I wouldn't be surprised if it will be in a future round of closings.
Tips for shopping liquidation sales
Here’s how to make sure you’re getting the best deal at liquidation sales:
- Be prepared: Prices at liquidation sales are not always the lowest you can find, especially at the beginning.
- Compare prices: Do a Google search or use a price comparison website or a smartphone app like ShopSavvy, which is available for Apple and Android. Also search the web for old store circulars to see the advertised sales prices from previous sales.
- Check the product thoroughly: Open the box, look for damage and make sure all parts, accessories, instructions, warranty information and other items that should be included.
- Use a credit card: If you experience any problems, this will give you a way to contest the charge.
- Get rid of gift cards: If you have a gift card for Toys R Us or another financially strapped retailer, use the cards as quickly as possible and avoid buying cards for these retailers. Closing locations will still accept gift cards, according to Toys R Us' website.
- Warranties: Check warranty details and find out where repairs can be made. Some closing stores typically continue to sell extended warranties.
- Go often: If you have your heart set on an item, swing by the store weekly. Tag team with a friend and share your lists with each other.
- Important: Remember, all sales are final. If you end up buying something you don’t want, try recouping your money by selling it.
- More info: Closing stores will continue to honor the rewards and registry programs. For questions about products, warranties or rewards, call 1-800-TOYSRUS or 1-800-869-7787 between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m.
More: Treasure Coast's first DSW now open in Port St. Lucie
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Kelly Tyko is a columnist for Treasure Coast Newspapers and TCPalm.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK. This column reflects her opinion. Read her Bargainista tips at TCPalm.com/Bargainista and follow her on Twitter @KellyTyko. Sign up for her weekly newsletter at www.tcpalm.com/featured-newsletter/bargainistabest.