
Joann Inc., the popular fabric and craft retailer based in Hudson, Ohio, continues to face uncertainty as it works to sell its assets in bankruptcy court. The company recently filed two additional WARN (Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification) notices, signaling potential job losses if a buyer isn’t found.
Potential Layoffs at Key Distribution Centers
If Joann is unable to secure a buyer, up to 475 employees could lose their jobs across two major locations. One of the latest WARN notices affects the Omni Fulfillment Center at 1020 Enterprise Pkwy. in West Jefferson. If this facility shuts down, 116 employees will be permanently laid off, with job cuts beginning March 31. Notably, none of the affected employees are represented by a union.
A second WARN notice impacts Joann’s distribution center at its Hudson headquarters, where job cuts are also expected to begin on March 31.
Joann Inc. Bankruptcy: Escalating Job Cuts at Joann’s Corporate Headquarters
The latest round of WARN notices adds to Joann’s ongoing downsizing efforts. On January 15, the same day the company filed for its second bankruptcy in two years, it announced plans to lay off 661 employees at its corporate headquarters in Hudson. That number was later revised to 662 employees, with layoffs scheduled in phases:
- March 15: 546 employees
- March 31: 63 employees
- April 30: 44 employees
- May 31: 9 employees
Joann also clarified that it has identified certain corporate employees who will be retained temporarily to assist with potential business closure efforts.
Gordon Brothers Steps in as “Stalking Horse” Bidder
In an effort to stabilize the bankruptcy sale process, Gordon Brothers Retail Partners LLC has stepped in as the “stalking horse” bidder for Joann’s assets. The same firm recently helped prevent the liquidation of up to 400 Big Lots stores. However, if Gordon Brothers’ bid succeeds, Joann’s future remains uncertain. According to an FAQ on the retailer’s restructuring website, the firm has indicated plans to liquidate the company and conduct going-out-of-business sales at all store locations.
Joann’s Nationwide Presence and Impact
Joann currently operates over 800 stores across 49 states, including seven locations in Central Ohio—West Columbus, Dublin, Reynoldsburg, Lancaster, Heath, Easton, and Polaris.
With bankruptcy proceedings underway, the fate of these stores—and thousands of employees—hangs in the balance. As Joann Inc. navigates this turbulent period, customers, employees, and investors are watching closely to see what’s next for this long-standing retail brand.
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