Amazon to lay off 680 workers

Amazon announced on Monday plans to shut down a center complex in Shakopee and lay off 680 employees at the facility which is a rented space and the lease is expiring. The decision will be effective as of March 31. Closure will be permanent at the end of May this year.

In a letter to the concerned Department of Employment and Economic Development, in Minnesota, the US retail giant pointed out that the workers affected will be offered opportunities at facilities in other states or in the Twin Cities region and this move was not about reducing headcounts.

“We’re always evaluating our network to make sure it fits our business needs and to improve the experience for our employees, customers, partners, and drivers,” said Steve Kelly, public relations manager, adding “As part of that effort, we may close older sites, enhance existing facilities, or open new sites, and we weigh a variety of factors when deciding where to develop future sites or maintain a presence.

Amazon said it made the announcement pursuant to state and federal laws that require companies to give governments advance notice of large layoffs.