Payless statistics and facts

Payless Statistics (2026): Store Footprint, Relaunch Timeline, and Key Facts

Payless is a value footwear retailer with a major international franchise presence. Explore key Payless stats, including the 2019 U.S. closure, 2020 relaunch, and recent Philippines store growth.

DMR » Stats and Fun Facts » Retail Statistics and Fun Facts » Payless Statistics and Facts

Payless store count statistics and facts

Payless is a value footwear retailer best known in the U.S. for affordable family shoes and frequent promotions. While Payless’ North American retail business went through major disruption in the late 2010s, the brand has continued operating through international partners and later pursued a relaunch strategy.

Because Payless is privately held and has operated through different structures over time, the most verifiable public numbers tend to focus on major corporate events (closures and relaunch) and country-level figures published by local operations.

Payless by the Numbers

  • U.S. store closure announcement: 2,100 stores (2019)
  • North America relaunch announcement: e-commerce + concept stores (2020)
  • Philippines store footprint (company-stated): more than 65 stores

Key Payless Metrics

Metric Value Year (as reported) Source
U.S. store closures (announced) 2,100 U.S. stores 2019 CBS News / AP report
North America relaunch E-commerce + new concept store approach 2020 PR Newswire (company release)
Philippines store count (company-stated) More than 65 stores Company statement (accessed 2026) Payless Philippines About

How Payless Operates Today

  • Value positioning: Payless focuses on affordable footwear for families, with frequent promotional pricing.
  • Partner-driven presence: in many markets, Payless stores operate through local franchise or partner structures.
  • Digital-first relaunch: company releases around 2020 highlighted renewed focus on e-commerce and updated store concepts.

FAQ

Did Payless close its U.S. stores?

Yes. In 2019, Payless announced it would close its remaining 2,100 U.S. stores.

Did Payless come back after the closures?

In 2020, Payless announced a North America relaunch including an updated e-commerce platform and a new store concept strategy.

How many Payless stores are in the Philippines?

Payless Philippines states it has expanded to more than 65 stores around the country.

Craig Smith
Craig Smith

DMR Publisher. Director of Marketing by day and I run this little site at night. Other interests include Disney, Sports, 80's Nostalgia, LEGO, Star Wars and Tech Gadgets. Other site is DisneyNews.us.

Articles: 964