Outdoor retailer closing nearly 60 stores amid bankruptcy

West Marine, a specialty retailer for boating and outdoor gear, has filed for bankruptcy and announced plans to close nearly 60 stores across 23 states, including five in Washington. The closures follow financial strain, though coverage does not yet specify the exact cause or timeline for liquidation.

Major outlets including *The Seattle Times*, *Fast Company*, *Newsday*, and *Fox Business* are reporting the move, with some providing lists of affected locations. The retailer’s bankruptcy filing marks a significant shift in the outdoor retail sector, raising questions about supply chain resilience and consumer demand.

Next steps include potential asset sales or restructuring efforts, though details remain unclear. Watch for updates on employee impacts, supplier negotiations, and whether competitors will fill the gap in boating and outdoor supply markets.