News Summary

Factory Mattress in Austin is set to close after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, holding a massive closing sale with discounts of up to 80%. The closure reflects a broader trend affecting many retail stores across the nation, sparking concerns about the future of brick-and-mortar shopping. Additionally, Smokey Bones is closing several locations and plans to convert some into Twin Peaks restaurants, further reshaping the dining landscape. This news marks a significant transition for the Austin community as the retail and restaurant sectors face major challenges.

Big Changes in Austin as Factory Mattress Announces Closing Sale

Austin, Texas has become a buzz of chatter recently, and not just because of the summer heat! Factory Mattress, a beloved chain in the area, has decided to hold a giant closing sale after officially filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on June 7, 2025. This move means that all Factory Mattress locations will be shutting their doors for good, making way for massive discounts of up to 80% off on mattresses and other merchandise.

A Fond Farewell to Factory Mattress

For many residents of Austin, the news is bittersweet. With four locations in town, Factory Mattress has been the go-to spot for comfortable, high-quality mattresses from brands such as Nextar, Lovett, and Smartlife. People have enjoyed the experience of trying out different mattresses to find that perfect night’s sleep. However, as they prepare to close, Factory Mattress is ramping up its sales efforts with hopes of clearing out stock. Customers can expect to find deep discounts, making it an excellent opportunity for those in the market for a new mattress or simply looking to grab a great deal.

The Reason Behind the Closures

This closure trend isn’t an isolated incident just for Factory Mattress. It mirrors a larger pattern we’re seeing in the retail world. Unfortunately, many brick-and-mortar stores are facing challenges, with reports indicating that around 45,000 stores could close in the next five years alone. Major players like Foot Locker, Tuesday Morning, and Bed Bath & Beyond are among those who’ve faced shuttering stores and bankruptcy recently. Business experts predict a decline in the overall number of retail stores from approximately 958,000 to 913,000. This could mark a significant shift in how we shop and what stores will thrive in the future.

Another Closing: Smokey Bones

If that’s not enough to digest, you might want to brace yourself for more news. Smokey Bones, a fan-favorite dining option, has announced it will close nine locations, including one in Roanoke, Virginia—a closing date set for July 6, 2025. Customers have taken to social media, expressing their dismay over the closure of this staple restaurant. The outpouring of nostalgia and sadness reflects the deep connections that diners have formed with Smokey Bones, a place where many gathered for barbecue and memories.

Interestingly, Smokey Bones is taking a different approach after closing these locations: they plan to convert many of them into Twin Peaks restaurants, a move that aims to keep their footprint alive even if the Smokey Bones brand diminishes. With plans like these, Smokey Bones, under the parent company Fat Brands, will still hold onto around 20 locations.

The Future of Retail

So, what does the future hold for retail in Austin and beyond? While many stores face tough times, giants like Walmart, Costco, Home Depot, and Target are expected to continue flourishing. These retailers have managed to adapt to changing consumer habits, showing resilience in a challenging environment.

As Austin bids farewell to Factory Mattress and potentially watches Smokey Bones transform into Twin Peaks, the local community faces a time of change—the kind that will likely encourage shopping habits to evolve and new businesses to emerge. Whether it’s snagging a great mattress deal or reshaping dining options, this changing landscape is sure to impact residents for years to come.

Big Changes in Austin as Factory Mattress Closes