Carson’s is Closing, What You Should Know

“After 160 years, all of our stores nationwide are GOING OUT OF BUSINESS,” is the what the email stated to customers of Carson’s Department Stores.

The early reports indicated only 42 locations would close, including three brands in Michigan – they operate Bon-Ton, Bergner’s, Boston Store, Carson’s, Elder-Beerman, Herberger’s, and Younkers – that was January. By February they were seeking bankruptcy protection. And then the email came on April 20.

Inside Carson's of Rochester Hills

Big Signs showing 30% off, but items only 10% off at Carson’s

Carson’s has 250 stores in 23 states, several of which are in Michigan, and one in Rochester Hills at the Village of Rochester Hills. Our local Carson’s employs 130 people – all set to lose their jobs. The first store will close by June 5, but no official word on the Rochester Hills location.

The signs are hung and gives the impression that great deals are available. That is the image anyone will receive walking through the doors of Carson’s in Rochester Hills. Currently, the sales are for everything at least 10% off, with some items as much as 30% off.

Frequent customers were used to rewards, coupons, and great deals going on all the time.

“We regret to inform you that YOUR REWARDS credit card program will be discontinued immediately due to the Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. bankruptcy filing. Any YOUR REWARDS credit card rewards, benefits, or other offers issued will no longer be accepted including Your Rewards coupons cards,” states their website.

Inside Carson's of Rochester Hills

Carson’s Department Stores are Closing

The truth is customers would have received much better deals before the “Everything must be sold” signs went up. But that didn’t stop shoppers looking for deals. The Village location had crowds of people come in last weekend with huge register sales – way above average – employees told Rochester Media.

Savvy shoppers should keep an eye on the progression, as with most liquidation situations, the sale prices will be tiered – 30%, 50%, 80% – until that store closes completely. The stores will probably close in stages with remaining merchandise moving to another – still open – location.

“Hurry in for best selection,” is a tag line in the email. That may be true. Sizes that are difficult to find will go first. Shoppers with favorite items or unique fits may want to go now to find something they really want for a little savings. In addition, some brands such as Under Armour rarely go on sale – here’s a chance to buy at a discount some of those items.

People will continue to float in and out, hoping by chance to get the best deal on what’s left. Remember, their employees are losing their jobs (at least in a good job market), so be kind and wish them well. Hopefully, a similar business will replace our Rochester Hills Carson’s.

Inside Carson's of Rochester Hills

Under Armour is one good deal at 10% off at Carson’s

Here are further Frequently Asked Questions from the Carson’s Website about the closing for customers to know:

Going Out of Business Sale

Our stores, website, and mobile platforms will remain open and operating to serve customers. All online and in-store sales will be final. Discounts will be applied in your shopping bag or at the register.

Your Orders

Customers can expect to receive any orders that have already been placed.

Returns

We are continuing to accept returns in-store and online under our normal policies for the 10 days following the start of store closing sales, inclusive or the sale commencement date of Friday, April 20, 2018.
Following this 10-day period, all online and in-store sales will be final, and merchandise sold prior and during the store closing period will be considered final sale.
If a purchase was made on a Bon-Ton credit card prior to April 19, 2018, a credit can be processed on the card within 10 days.

Your Rewards store card & Loyalty Rewards

Can I still use my Your Rewards store card?

No, as of Thursday, April 19, 2018, Loyalty Rewards Store Cards (Private Label Credit Cards) are no longer accepted.

Will customers continue to earn or be able to use loyalty rewards, including YOUR REWARDS and LoveStyle Rewards, for purchases made in stores?

No, as of Thursday, April 19, 2018, store loyalty programs have been discontinued.

Accepted Payment Types

During store closing sales, only cash and nationally recognized bank credit cards will be accepted.

Merchandise Credits

Can I still use merchandise credits (store credits, return credits)?

Merchandise credits will continue to be honored in-store for a period of 10 days following the first day of store closing sales, inclusive of the sale commencement date. Following this 10-day period, only cash and nationally recognized bank credit cards will be accepted. Merchandise credits cannot be returned for cash.

Gift Cards

Can I still use gift cards or gift certificates?

Yes, gift cards and gift certificates will continue to be honored for a period of 10 days following the first day of store closing sales, inclusive of the sale commencement date. Following this 10-day period, only cash and nationally recognized bank credit cards will be accepted during store closing sales. Gift Cards cannot be returned for cash

Can I still purchase a gift card or gift certificate?

No, gift cards are no longer available for purchase.

Coupons

Will customers be able to use their Bon-Ton coupons in the closing stores? Will closing stores still be accepting coupons during the closing sales?

No, as of Friday, April 20, 2018, coupons will no longer be valid once store closing sales begin. Going Out of Business Sale discounts will be applied in your shopping bag or at the register. Coupons cannot be returned for cash.

Questions / More information

For additional information, please review our Customer FAQ.

For questions about products and warranties, customers should continue to contact our Customer Service at 800-945-4438.

About Michael Dwyer

Michael Dwyer is a freelance content provider. Michael writes about happenings in the Rochester area, travels across Michigan and destinations around the world. Contact him at michael@rochestermedia.com.

Comments

  1. I have over 500.00 dollars in gift cards from Carson’s. What can I do ?

  2. When is there last day?

    • We don’t know. They keep bringing in stock from other closing stores. We’ve heard that they own the building – it’s for sale – when they have a buying, they’ll wrap things up.

  3. Is the Rochester Hills location still open? I went to the Carson’s in Monroe and Livonia today; both had “Closing in 4 days” signs, but great deals on the few remaining items.

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