The COOP Alentour distribution center in Sherbooke will finally cease its activities and will close its doors on March 31.
The Satau company of Montreal, which was to acquire it, decided to backtrack. The decision fell earlier this week.
Thirty workers will therefore lose their jobs. If there is any consolation, it is that this closure occurs at a time when businesses in Sherbrooke are competing for workers.
Satau, one of the largest distributors of organic products in Quebec, bought the inventory and some 200 brands distributed by the COOP at the beginning of the year.
The group ultimately decided not to acquire the center, preferring to repatriate distribution operations to its Montreal headquarters.
In December, the COOP Alentour announced a restructuring of its business model, closed its La grande ruche store to concentrate its activities in that of rue Jean-Paul Perrault.
Of the 60 employees who worked at the distribution center four months ago, there are only about 30 left today. Five people will remain employed by the Satau group.
Employees met on site told TVA Nouvelles that they had mixed feelings.
Many have already found a new job, but older people who have already reached retirement age said they wanted to take the time to think about their future.
Put up for sale just a few days ago, the building on Boulevard Industriel is already generating a lot of interest. Many potential buyers are interested in the 25,000 square foot warehouse.