L.L. Bean is donating $250,000 to the American Red Cross to support relief operations in Japan. L.L.Bean operates 20 stores, a call center, and administrative offices in Japan, with most of these locations in the greater Tokyo area. Five of L.L.Bean's Japan stores suffered minor earthquake damage.
“The Red Cross is known for its swift actions to provide emergency care and to help reconnect loved ones in these times of crisis,” said Chris McCormick, president and CEO, L.L. Bean, in a statement. “It is the quickest and most effective way for L.L. Bean to offer our assistance to the Japanese people suffering from this disaster.”
L.L. Bean said it is in frequent communication with its International management team to coordinate ongoing efforts to support L.L.Bean Japan Branch employees in the immediate future as well as with long-term assistance.
“Our top priority is the safety of our employees,” added McCormick. “We have confirmed that all Japan based employees are okay.”
L.L. Bean is also supplying solar powered radios, crank flashlights, blankets, sleeping bags, and cook stoves – L.L. Bean products normally used for camping adventures – to its Japan employees in need during this emergency.
