Joann files for bankruptcy amid consumer pullback, but plans to keep stores open [Video]

Fabric and crafts retailer Joann declared bankruptcy on Monday amid spending cutbacks from consumers and higher operating costs. The retail chain said it plans to keep its 800-plus stores open while it works through the restructuring process.

Hudson, Ohio-based Joann, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, reported between $1 billion and $10 billion in debt. In court documents filed Monday, the retailer blamed higher costs from shipping overseas products, as well as waning consumer demand.

As part of its bankruptcy, Joann said it has received about $132 million in new financing and expects to reduce its balance sheet’s funded debt by about $505 million. The financing is “a significant step forward” to help Joann continue operating its stores, Scott Sekella, Joann’s chief financial officer said in a statement. 

The filing marks the latest in a series of major retailers that have filed for bankruptcy in recent years, including GNC, J.C. …