Popular clothing retailer with 70 locations closes another store just weeks after news of its first due to ‘lock out’
CUSTOMERS looking to shop for trendy, fashionable clothes have encountered a “lockout notice” at two branded stores.
Papaya, the self-proclaimed “fashion authority and go-to place for the latest trends,” has suddenly closed two stores.
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Papaya’s closures both took place in Laredo, Texas.
The store closures came after the owner of the building Papaya leased from, CBL Properties, claimed the company failed to pay rent for both stores.
“I am writing this letter on behalf of the landlord in connection with the lease agreement,” read the letter, which was posted outside the clothing store’s Mall del Norte location, according to LMTonline.
“It is hereby notified that the lease is terminated effective 6/21/23 due to your failure to comply with the terms of the lease.”
The letter said Papaya representatives were “locked off the premises.”
According to the publication, clothes racks filled with items from the brand will remain in stores.
The notice alleges that Cornerstone Apparel, the company that owns the Papaya brand, owes $89,615.80 for both deals.
The company has been running the store in the Mall del Norte since 2008.
Papaya did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
CUSTOMER CONCERNS
Customers passing by the store told the publication they were upset by the store’s closure.
“Honestly, I love papaya and especially her summer clothes, but I never thought it would go that far,” a customer told the newspaper.
“Seeing that letter up front shows that something has gone really wrong with them.”
The client was concerned about how the companies were handling the situation with the Papaya employees.
“I just hope the workers have been notified beforehand of the store closing so they don’t just let them go or come into the store just to see it close.”
WHAT IS PAPAYA?
Papaya operates 70 stores in the United States.
“Our business is primarily focused on the children’s and petite apparel market,” the company said on its website.
“We help millions of young women across the United States look and feel good by offering a wide variety of clothing and accessories to help you find the perfect outfit for any occasion.”
The company has a range of ready-to-wear clothing at discounted prices.
Tops start at $10. The average price for jeans is in the mid-$20 range.
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