Company cites financial difficulties; closing set for Jan. 5 unless a buyer steps in
By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Nearly 600 North Alabama workers could lose their jobs early next year after The Children’s Place told employees it plans to close its Fort Payne distribution center.
The children’s clothing retailer expects to lay off all 593 employees at the facility on Airport Road West and close it permanently on Jan. 5, 2027, WAFF reported Nov. 5. A letter to employees said the company is “experiencing financial difficulties.”
The distribution center opened in 2007 and has been one of the larger employers in DeKalb County in Northeast Alabama. For nearly two decades, it has provided steady warehouse and logistics work in a county where jobs of that size are hard to replace.
Local leaders hope the facility can be saved. “We’re really hoping that they do get a buyer for the business,” Fort Payne Mayor Brian Baine told WAFF.
DeKalb County Economic Development Director Brett Johnson confirmed the closing notice was legitimate and called the loss a blow to the local economy, WEIS Radio reported.
The announcement comes during the holiday season, when many families are already stretching budgets. For a community of Fort Payne’s size, the loss of nearly 600 paychecks would ripple through local stores, restaurants, and churches.
The closure reminds everyone how quickly national retail troubles can reach small-town Alabama. Distribution and logistics jobs have been a pathway into steady work for many North Alabama families without a college degree.
Workers facing layoffs can get free job-search help, résumé assistance, and training referrals through AlabamaWorks career centers. Information is available at alabamaworks.com.