Christmas Tree Shops

Christmas Tree Shops was a beloved American discount retailer known for its seasonal décor, home goods, and gifts, with a special focus on Christmas merchandise. Founded in 1970 by Charles and Doreen Bilezikian in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts, the company began as a single store on Cape Cod. Over the years, it became a regional favorite, particularly in the Northeast, appealing to value-conscious shoppers with its unique holiday and everyday items.

A significant turning point for the company came in 2003 when it was acquired by Bed Bath & Beyond. This acquisition spurred further expansion and introduced the brand to new markets. At its height, Christmas Tree Shops operated over 80 stores across 20 states, primarily in New England and the Mid-Atlantic. The stores were known for their distinctive barn-style architecture and whimsical shopping experience, drawing in customers with their charm and variety.

As of June 2023, Christmas Tree Shops ceased operations following a bankruptcy filing, with all stores closing by August 2023. The brand struggled to overcome financial challenges exacerbated by the pandemic and supply chain issues. For commercial real estate professionals, Christmas Tree Shops served as a significant anchor tenant, known for its large-format stores that attracted high seasonal traffic and encouraged cross-shopping in power centers and strip malls. Although the stores have closed, their impact remains visible as former locations are repurposed by new tenants, continuing to shape the retail landscape.