J.Crew files for Chapter 11 as pandemic chokes retail sector

NEW YORK (AP) The owner of J.Crew is filing for bankruptcy protection, the first major retailer to do so since the pandemic forced the closing of most stores in the United States.

More retail bankruptcies are expected in coming weeks with the doors of thousands of stores still locked.

March sales at stores and restaurants had their most severe plunge on records dating back to 1992.  Clothing sales fell more than 50% that month and it has grown worse.

The abrupt closure of stores threatens the overall health of the U.S. with consumers driving 70% of all economic activity in the country.

The company said Monday that it anticipates its stores will reopen when it’s safe to do so.