Headline: Eddie Bauer Considers Store Closures Across Southern California and Nationally - EBRA

[Para 1: The Lead] Eddie Bauer, ticker EBRA, may close stores nationwide, including in Southern California, amid plans for bankruptcy filing. Catalyst Brands, operator of the brand, is preparing to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in February 2026, impacting U.S. and Canadian stores. With approximately 180 stores in North America, the closure plans are expected to significantly affect the company's retail presence. [Para 2-3: Supporting details & Context] Catalyst Brands, formed in early 2025 and based in Plano, Texas, is transitioning operations to Outdoor 5 LLC. The company, which owns JCPenney, Aéropostale, and Lucky Brand, did not comment on the closure plans. Authentic Brands Group, which owns the Eddie Bauer brand and intellectual property, also declined to comment. Eddie Bauer, founded in 1920, has faced multiple bankruptcy filings and is now in the process of reorganizing its operations.