Kohl's reported a slight increase in sales during the holiday season, but it's not enough. They're slated to close 18 stores this year. A first for the retailer.

Kohl's currently has 1,160 stores so 18 doesn't sound like a big deal, but it's a growing trend in retail. Remember Macy's and K-Mart?

Kohl's has not yet released the locations of the stores closing but anticipate doing so by the end of March. According to the press release, Kohl's will open 7 pilot stores that are about half the size of current locations, add 2 Off-Aisle pilot stores and 12 Fila outlet stores. Kevin Mansell, Kohl’s chairman says no one will be laid off. “Every affected store associate will be offered a position at a nearby Kohl’s location, or if they prefer, a competitive severance package.”

There are 15 Kohl's locations within 100 miles of Utica with the closest in New Hartford, Fayetteville, Liverpool and Amsterdam.

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