Gift shop Hai Home to close amid slump in sales

Hai Home has announced the closure of its gift shop in Chalan Laulau along Middle Road, citing a sharp drop in sales tied to the CNMI’s slowing economy and continued outmigration.

The closing was announced last weekend through a social media post advertising discounts of up to 70%. CNH Corp., which owns the store, said the decision followed months of declining sales.

“Because the economy is very low now,” supervisor Helen Huang said in an interview when asked why the store is closing.

Huang said CNH Corp. operates two retail outlets—Hai Home and its sister store, The House—and has opted to shutter Hai Home while continuing operations at The House in San Jose.

“So, we have two stores, actually. Now, just closed down one. We keep continuing one,” Huang said. “

She said Hai Home’s sales downturn began last year and has worsened steadily.

“Last year, already started,” Huang said. “Yeah, really bad… I think almost 40-50 %,” when asked how sales have been down since 2025.

While Hai Home is closing, Huang assured customers that its popular and affordable gift items will still be available at The House, which also carries furniture.

“We really, really, we love this High Home because this is [our first business here],” she said. “So, Hai Home [we wanted really to continue], but the economy is so low.”

Addressing loyal customers, Huang added, “[We] have many loyal customers, very good customers. We [will] continue serving in The House. We have more furniture and more gift items also there. So, don’t Hai High Home. We will continue in The House.”

Huang said all three Hai Home staff members will be transferred to the San Jose location.

“Yes. All three of us,” she said.

The closing sale will continue until all remaining inventory is sold, which Huang said could run through the end of February or possibly March.

“Yeah, everything [we will try to sell] here,” she said.

Hai Home is located in the ground floor of the MAC Building in Chalan Laulau.