In a sign of the times, Fanatics reported it would shutter one of its oldest fulfillment centers as the company continues to upgrade technology and services at newer facilities to better address the needs of consumers, retailers, and team/club customers.
The retailer, designer, and manufacturer of licensed sports products has grown out of a hometown Jacksonville, FL facility, resulting in the need to lay off 218 workers at the fulfillment center beginning April 1; however, the terminations are expected to continue through the date the facility is scheduled to close on August 1.
“At Fanatics, our top priority is delivering a best-in-class experience for our fans and partners,” the company said in a media statement. “This includes ensuring that all our facilities are best equipped to efficiently and effectively ship our products to fans around the world.”
Fanatics went on to say that the Commonwealth Facility in Jacksonville, FL, is one of the oldest buildings it operates, and this has resulted in continued challenges in the company’s attempts to keep it up-to-date to service customers and meet new demands.
“To better service our fans within the Southeastern United States, we will be shifting our fulfillment efforts to newer buildings in and around the region where we have access to updated technology and infrastructure to ensure a better fan experience,” the statement continued. “We continue to maintain a strong presence in Jacksonville, employing more than 1,500 employees at our corporate offices. In addition, we continue to operate the in-venue retail business for the Jacksonville Jaguars.”
The company sent a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Notice to the State of Florida and the City of Jacksonville, reflecting its intention to close the fulfillment center on Commonwealth Avenue.
Fanatics will maintain newer, modernized distribution centers in Las Vegas, NV; Aberdeen, MD; Louisville, KY, and Frazeysburg, OH.
Image courtesy Fanatics
