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MI

Michaels Stores

Unknown
PE-OWNED

Arts and crafts retailer for makers and creators.

PE-OWNED

Acquired by Bain Capital2006-06-01

View PE Firm Profile

What Made It Great

“

Where creativity happens - supplies for every craft project.

What PE Will Likely Do

Predictions

Michaels Stores will likely experience a significant reduction in the quality and selection of craft supplies and materials as the company cuts costs to increase profitability for the PE firm

HIGH LIKELIHOODBased on: Bain Capital's history of cost-cutting and service quality reduction in other PE acquisitions

Michaels Stores will likely close a significant number of underperforming stores, leading to reduced accessibility and convenience for customers

HIGH LIKELIHOODBased on: The industry playbook for PE-owned retail companies, which frequently involves debt loading, dividend recapitalization, store closures, inventory reduction, and deferred maintenance

The in-store experience at Michaels Stores will likely deteriorate, with less investment in store maintenance, renovations, and customer service

HIGH LIKELIHOODBased on: The negative consumer impact score of 0.26 for Bain Capital's tactics

Expected Timeline

Phases
0-6 monthsCompleted

“0 to 6 months months”

Announcements about 'cost optimization' and 'operational improvements' at Michaels Stores

6-12 monthsYOU ARE HERE

“6 to 12 months months”

First round of store closures and staff reductions announced, leading to longer wait times and fewer customer service staff

12-24 months

“12 to 24 months months”

Noticeable decline in the quality and selection of craft supplies, including fewer high-end and specialty items, as the company cuts inventory to improve cash flow

24-48 months

“24 to 48 months months”

Increasing number of store closures, deteriorating in-store experience due to deferred maintenance and renovations, and rumors of potential bankruptcy or restructuring

48-60 months

“48 to 60 months months”

Potential bankruptcy, restructuring, or fire sale of Michaels Stores assets

What You Can Do

Take Action

Actions

  • Be prepared for a potential decline in the quality and selection of craft supplies and materials at Michaels Stores

  • Monitor for store closures in your local area and plan accordingly for reduced accessibility

  • Consider supporting local, independent craft stores that may offer a better in-store experience and selection

Alternatives

Research independent alternativesSAFE

Look for family-owned or employee-owned businesses

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"Michaels Stores is now PE-owned. Here's what that means for you."