The Vermont Department of Labor has been alerted to C&S Wholesale Grocers’ plans to lay off workers in Brattleboro beginning in March. Labor Commissioner Mike Harrington announced on Friday that this decision will impact fewer than 50 employees and will not be implemented for at least 45 days. The news of this impending layoff was initially reported by the Brattleboro Reformer.
C&S Wholesale Grocers, established in 1918, serves as a wholesale grocery supplier to more than 7,500 independent supermarkets, chain stores, and institutions across the United States. The company, headquartered in Keene, NH, constructed a 300,000-square foot warehouse in Brattleboro in 1981, its sole location in Vermont.
According to the federal WARN Act, businesses with 100 or more employees must provide a minimum of 60 days’ notice before laying off 50 or more employees at a single site. Harrington disclosed that C&S has submitted a notice, pending review by the labor department’s legal team to determine its necessity.
Rachel Dumeny, a representative for the labor department, assured that affected workers would be eligible for state aid. She advised those facing layoffs to apply for unemployment insurance benefits and seek guidance from job center specialists for support during this transition.
Despite these developments, C&S Wholesale Grocers has yet to offer a public statement regarding the layoffs or the impact on the affected employees.
Impact on Employees and Community
This news undoubtedly raises concerns for the employees who will be facing job loss in the coming months. The uncertainty of their future employment status, coupled with the economic repercussions for the local community, adds a layer of complexity to this situation.
Employment Assistance and Resources
In light of these layoffs, it is crucial for the affected individuals to explore available resources and support systems. Applying for unemployment insurance benefits and tapping into job center specialists’ expertise can help navigate this challenging period of transition.
Company’s Response and Accountability
As the story unfolds, the public eagerly awaits C&S Wholesale Grocers’ official statement and accountability regarding the impending layoffs in Brattleboro. Clear communication and transparency from the company are essential to address the concerns of the employees and the community at large.
