Check out retailers cutting back the number of stores they operate.

Several retailers have talked about shutting down stores in the past week. Timberland today said it would close most of its specialty retail stores as it shifts its focus to smaller, footwear-focused stores in the United States. The move also comes as Timberland’s trademark work boots are becoming less of a fashion statement.
 
Movie Gallery said yesterday that it would close 520 underperforming stores, or 13 percent of its chain. Movie Gallery has been in a fierce battle for market share with Blockbuster and has slashed prices. Store revenue for the rental industry has fallen as a result of competition from online renters like Netflix.
 
Sometimes new ideas don’t quite work out or lose out to new priorities. Home Depot has said it would close 11 Landscape supply concept stores to focus on its core retail warehouses.
 
But as one door closes, another one opens, either for the retailer or a competitor. Women’s’ apparel company Guess has been closing poor performing stores. But its chief operating officer said last week it could actually double the number of Guess stores in North America, where it currently has 347 outlets.
 
And as competitors like Circuit City, CompUSA and Tweeter close stores, Best Buy has seen a somewhat better competitive landscape. It also saw a 9 percent jump in its second-quarter profit.
 
Also in the basket: 
H&M third-quarter profit misses estimates
 
Anheuser-Busch stock left on tap as other brewer stocks rise