JCPenney is reportedly planning to close dozens of stores across the United States, including one of its major Ohio locations.
The company confirmed to WKYC Thursday its store at Elyria's Midway Mall will be shutting down July 5. The decision was made as part of an ongoing review of all stores, and it has been implied the Elyria spot is not meeting "required financial targets or represent[ing] an opportunity to capitalize on a beneficial real estate asset."
"It’s never easy taking actions that directly impact our valued associates and customers, however we feel this is a necessary business decision," the company added in a statement.
There are roughly 70 associates employed by the Elyria location. JCPenney says all will be eligible for separation benefits if they are not transferred to another location and an on-site career training class will also be held.
In addition to Midway Mall, JCPenney also told us its furniture store in North Olmsted will be closing this fall, with all remaining inventory being sold through the summer. It is unknown how many employees work at that location.