L.L. Bean to leave Tanger Outlets

Outdoors outfitter and clothing company L.L. Bean will shutter its Tanger Outlets Midway store in May.

L.L. Bean spokeswoman Carolyn Beem said the closure was a strategic decision and has nothing to do with the store’s performance.

“It’s a purely business decision,” Beem said. “We’ve had a good run in Rehoboth, with a great customer base.”

L.L. Bean is also closing its outlet in Portland, Maine. Beem said the company is shifting its focus to retail stores, meaning fewer products to liquidate.

“That’s not to say we wouldn’t open up outlets in the future,” she said.”

For disappointed shoppers, Beem offered a silver lining: They’re likely to see some clearance sales as the store begins wrapping up its operations in early May.

Beem said all year-round employees are being offered severance packages. “We’re working with employees as we are able,” she said.

Tanger Outlets Manager Amy Norgate said Tanger plans to fill the vacancy. The Midway complex has a list of stores waiting to buy retail space, she said, and L.L. Bean’s central location should easily find a new tenant. “It’s a big anchor space, absolutely,” she said.

While Norgate said she sees L.L. Bean’s departure as an opportunity, she said Tanger will miss L.L. Bean, a linchpin of the Midway complex. “Losing L.L. Bean is not a good thing,” she said. “We love them.” The Midway store opened in May 1995. Walking away from such an investment isn’t easy, Beem said.

“It’s tough,” Beem said. “Fifteen years is certainly a commitment.”