Photo credit: San Bernardino CountySAN BERNARDINO COUNTY – San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board (WDB) announced March 6, it hosted a Rapid Response hiring event, in partnership with Kohl’s, to assist employees being laid off at the company’s e-commerce distribution center.
The company announced in January that it would close its San Bernardino distribution center and 10 stores in the state.
Kohl’s attributed the permanent closure to new technology that allows the company to maintain its ability to fulfill orders without the San Bernardino facility.
Effective at the end of March, a total of 929 employees will be laid off including 690 at the center, according to a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN).
Kohl’s offered workers a paid day to attend an on-site job fair
When Kohl’s made the announcement, senior human resources manager Cory Williams and his team quickly put together a transition plan.
“Our associates are what made this a top-performing distribution center and we are committed to providing them with all the assistance and resources possible,” said Williams.
Kohl’s stopped work for a day. It gave employees a paid day off to attend an on-site job fair and resource event.
Over 300 associates participated in the morning information session and the following job fair and networking. Some interviewed on the spot with recruiters.
‘Resources are critical to someone who unexpectedly loses employment’
County officials praised Kohl’s for setting a standard in ethical business closures. They emphasized the collaborative model that all businesses should follow.
“Kohl’s willingness to partner with the county to ensure a smooth transition for their employees demonstrates what a great community partner they are. These resources are critical to someone who unexpectedly loses employment,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Dawn Rowe.
She goes on to commend the workforce development team for their incredible work and dedication.
For more information on Workforce Development Board programs, call 1-800-451-JOBS (5627) or visit one of our county’s three America’s Job Centers of California, or go to the website.
 announced March 6, it hosted a Rapid Response hiring event, in partnership with Kohl’s to assist employees being laid off at the company’s e-commerce distribution center.){kind=link}