In recent years, Pittsburg and its neighboring town, Antioch, have seen an increasing number of store closures. Major retailers such as Target, Chilli’s, and In-Shape recently closed in Pittsburg as well as Savers, Barens and Nobles, Dollar General, and many more in Antioch. 

The result of these closings has affected many workers, the local economy, a limited number of available jobs and is raising concern from locals who worry about the safety of their employment.  

A significant reason for the store shutdowns is theft.  

Target’s corporate released a press statement on their website stating “we cannot continue operating these stores because theft and organized retail crime are threatening the safety of our team and guests, and contributing to unsustainable business  performance.”  

The city of Pittsburg had put effort towards limiting theft and keeping the Target in Pittsburg by turning what was previously an In-Shape gym near Target, into a Police  Academy before its closing. 

Another notable closure was the popular thrift store, Savers which, recently closed after only being open for less than a year. While the reason for its closing is unknown, there was a well-known theft problem for the store. It also faced 3 large roof hatch and rappel burglaries before losing shortly after. 

The Summersville Mall, a spot that was once a bustling shopping center with major retail stores, is now close to abandoned. Now, the mall holds 1 remaining shoe store, 2  jewelers, a few small gyms using the previous store’s spaces, and plenty of empty space,  including an entire 2 story Macy’s building left. 

The closings have affected many people, both workers and locals who now have to drive further for necessities.  

“Every team member got laid off and lost their jobs,” said Mackenzie Perry, the former manager of the now-closed Chilli’s in Pittsburg. “It sucks because it’s not easy for these people to find new jobs.” 

Perry explained that the reason for shutting down was that “they weren’t making enough money and it was just a bad area,” and also stated that the Pittsburg location had a larger problem with ‘dine-and-dashes’ than other locations.  

Despite efforts from the police and city councils of both Antioch and Pittsburg towards preventing shoplifting, both still face it and its damaging effects. 

The end to the closures is yet unforeseen. 

Is the theft a symptom of a larger economic problem or has it just become a trend driven by materialism?  

As more businesses shut down and people lose their jobs, citizens are left to wonder if their jobs are next and when and how city officials will fix this problem.