Portrait studios suddenly close at Walmart, Sears

CPI Corporation closes studios nationwide

HOUSTON – A huge portrait studio has closed down shop nationwide.

CPI Corporation operated photo shops at some Sears, Walmart and Toys 'R' Us stores.

The St. Louis-based company operated more than 2,000 studios.

The following statement is posted on the front page of their website:

"After many years of providing family portrait photography, we are sad to announce that all of our U.S. portrait studios are now closed. We appreciate your patronage and allowing us to capture your precious memories. We are attempting to fulfill as many customer orders as possible.

If you've had a recent session, your portraits may be available at your Sears, PictureMe or Kiddie Kandids portrait studio. For assistance, please contact the customer service department at your local store."

Sears said if you recently took portraits inside one of the their stores you can order prints at searsphotos.com through April 18.

CPI Corp. has been struggling financially. According to reports, the popularity of digital photography caused a big hit to CPI Corp. sales.