Malls and big box stores nationwide have felt the squeeze as buying trends change and consumers transition to online shopping.

We've seen a similar situation at our Great Falls, Montana mall.

Once filled wall-to-wall with stores, the mall in Great Falls now looks more like a ghost town.

But it's not just the malls that have felt the pinch.

Big box stores have also been on the chopping block, and many have been forced into bankruptcy.

One of the major players in the retail scene has announced a merger to save what remains of the company.

JCPenny Merger

JCPenney recently announced that it will merge with SPARC Group to create what they call Catalyst Brands.

Catalyst Brands will combine some of America's most prominent brands that have also faced bankruptcy.

The company hope to redefine the retail landscape by working together instead of against each other.

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Catalyst Brands Portfolio

Catalyst brands will soon include JCPenney's private brands:

  • Stafford
  • Arizona
  • Liz Claiborne

The company already has iconic American company brands:

Catalyst Brands is owned jointly by JCPenney and SPARC Group.

Simon Property Group, Brookfield Corporation, Authentic Brands Group, and Shein also support the new company.

I'm not sure what this merger will mean for Montana JCPenney locations, but the company promises a more unified experience among its various brands.

I'm also unclear whether the stores will be rebranded to the Catalyst Brands or remain under their original names.

Read Next: What Will Replace Big Lots In Great Falls?

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