The Closure of Trees n Trends: A Family-Owned Retailer’s Final Chapter
Trees n Trends, a well-known retailer specializing in home décor and gifts, has become the latest casualty of the ongoing retail crisis. The Wallace family, who have been at the helm of the business for decades, announced the closure of all six locations through a Facebook post on June 28. This marks the end of an era for a company that has served customers in Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri, and Tennessee for over 30 years.
The chain was originally established in 1992 under the name Silk Tree Factory before rebranding to Trees n Trends. Over the years, it evolved from a small shop focused on artificial greenery to a full-service store offering furniture, home décor, accessories, and women’s clothing. The business had always maintained a strong family-oriented approach, which set it apart from many other retailers that have transitioned into larger corporate structures.
With the announcement of closure, all stores are now undergoing liquidation sales, with items available at discounts ranging from 25 to 50 percent. Store hours have also been adjusted, operating Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, while remaining closed on Sundays. A member of the Wallace family provided more details about the closure in a video addressed to loyal customers, confirming that the stores will shut down once all inventory is sold. All sales are final, and only cash or card payments are accepted.
Despite the closure, the company has still managed to bring in new merchandise this week, including seasonal items. However, the news has left many customers and employees heartbroken. Social media has been flooded with messages from those who have fond memories of visiting or working at the stores.
One customer shared, “So sad, I have shopped there since it opened its doors as Silk Tree Factory. You will be missed, no other store comes close to being as nice as this store!!” Another former employee wrote, “I learned so much from Joe and all the leaders. I hold a special place in my heart for this company.” A third comment read, “It’s unfortunate that the store won’t be carrying on for future generations, but while the good run lasted, we were blessed to have a wholesome store family operated by Grace… Sad to see it go.”
While the future of the Wallace family remains uncertain, they have expressed gratitude to their loyal customers, employees, and the “hand of God” for helping them achieve success over the past three decades.
A Trend in Retail Closures
Trees n Trends is not alone in facing the challenges of the modern retail landscape. Several other family-owned businesses have also struggled to adapt to changing market conditions. For example, Joann, a once-family-owned craft chain, eventually became public and was acquired by Leonard Green & Partners. It later filed for bankruptcy twice, leading to the closure of all its locations.
Badcock Home Furniture & More, another long-standing family-owned business, was acquired by Franchise Group Inc. in 2021. However, the company faced financial difficulties and filed for bankruptcy in July 2024, resulting in the closure of its remaining 380 stores.
Additionally, At Home, a HomeGoods rival, began shuttering stores before filing for bankruptcy protection in June. These closures highlight the broader trend of retailers struggling to adjust to economic pressures, including tariffs and shifting consumer preferences.
As the retail industry continues to evolve, the stories of businesses like Trees n Trends serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by family-owned enterprises in an increasingly competitive market. Their closures mark the end of an era for many communities, leaving behind not just empty storefronts, but also cherished memories.
