Kitson, once one of Los Angeles’ hottest retail destinations, is closing all of its 17 stores as well as its website.
The retailer, which has seen significant challenges over the past few years, counted locations in California, Oregon and Nevada, in addition to the e-commerce business. Shopkitson.com is advertising 30 percent to 50 percent off sales in store; shoes are advertised as being 30 percent off.
Gordon Brothers Group and Hilco Merchant Resources started store closing sales at all retail locations beginning Thursday.
In addition to footwear and apparel, Kitson stocked a range of giftables and trinkets.
James Wong, Kitson’s chief restructuring officer, said in a statement that the company is in deal discussions to keep the name alive.
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Kitson owner Fraser Ross had been looking for new opportunities to expand the business over the years.
In 2010, Ross that with the opening of his 10th door in Santa Monica Place, he realized that the time came to bring in outside money for future expansion. “I’m at the level where I’m going to get sold. I can’t do more than 10 stores. I don’t know of another company my size that is self-financed at this level. It’s kind of unheard of. It’s a lot of pressure.”
