One of Canada’s best known players in the home improvement business is closing several stores, and the move means the loss of more than 100 jobs in our region.
Rona – the Canadian hardware giant announced on Thursday, June 27th, 2013 its closing 11 stores across the country – and cutting more than 300 jobs.
Stores in Aurora, Collingwood and Huntsville have been deemed “non-profitable.”
The news came as a shock to some who shop at the store.
“I spend probably about $200-thousand a year here and it’s not just me who comes here, there are other contractors too,” said Randy Harrison.
Rona called the move a restructuring and expect annual cost savings of $70 million as a result of the move.
Thirteen people from the Rona in Huntsville will lose their jobs and some customers were sympathetic.
“The little guys just can’t keep up with the big guys, people are going where they’ll save a few bucks and that’s unfortunate,” said Rona customer Jim Dickie.
The Rona location in Aurora will remain open until December 8th, 2013, but other stores in Collingwood and Huntsville will close its doors for good October 13th, 2013.
Rona Canada says it will try to offer new jobs at other locations to all employees affected by this restructuring.
