Best Buy takes slow, methodical route in store closings

While companies such as Macy’s and Sears announce massive store closings, Best Buy is taking more measured steps. This week, the CE chain said it will close two Baltimore-area locations, after closing one large box store and four of its mobile stores earlier this year. The chain’s total store count at the end of the second quarter was down to 1,397 stores in the U.S. from a peak of 1,503 stores in 2013. While recognizing the need to scale back physical locations as part of embracing digital channels, most Best Buy stores — often the only CE option in communities — are still profitable.