An 80-year-old appliance retailer from Southern California has stepped into bankruptcy proceedings, citing tariffs and weaker consumer spending. The filing comes just days after the retailer closed all of its Southern California stores on December 6.
Howard’s Appliances, Inc. Initiates Chapter 11 Proceedings
According to Pacer, Howard’s Appliances submitted a Chapter 11 petition to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of California on December 10. The appliance retailer submitted a voluntary Chapter 11 petition to start the proceedings.
Attorney David M. Goodrich of Golden Goodrich is representing the retailer in the case. Judge Sheri Bluebond is supervising the bankruptcy process.
Revisiting the Retailer’s Journey From Acquisition to Bankruptcy in 2025
While Howard’s Appliances, Inc. has participated in a Chapter 11 process towards the end of 2025, the whole year has been a rollercoaster ride for the retailer.
According to PR Newswire, an investment firm from Southern California, S5 Equity, acquired the appliance retailer on April 7, 2025. The Newport Beach–based firm is known for its work in retail, e-commerce, and operational turnarounds.
During that time, Peter Boutros, CEO of Howard’s Appliances, had expressed confidence in partnering with the firm, stating that it would support the turnaround of the cash-deficient retailer.
A few months later, the company closed all of its Southern California locations. The abrupt decision was made on December 6 without informing customers beforehand.
Founded in 1946, Howard’s Appliances offered appliances, mattresses, and TVs and served homeowners, designers, and industry professionals across Southern California. The 100% employee-owned company from Southern California served varied groups, including homeowners, interior designers, and industry professionals.
Latest Filings and Updates
Attorney David M Goodrich submitted the petition on December 10 by paying a fee amounting to $1,738. It should further be noted that attorney David Samuel Shevitz is representing the Office Of The United States Trustee in the latest case.
Below is a quick recap of the bankruptcy proceedings:
- Filing Date: December 10, 2025
- Court and Jurisdiction: U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware
- Type of Filing: Active, Voluntary Petition
- Chapter: 11
- Case Number: 2:25-bk-21116
- Reason for Filing: Tariff-related troubles and reduced consumer spending requires a proper reorganization plan under court supervision
The Chapter 11 process will play a key role in shaping the future of the longtime Southern California appliance retailer.
