Toys “R” Us distribution center to cease operations

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Toys “R” Us distribution center on Salt Springs Road will cease operations by Aug. 1.

There are 71 full- and part-time workers at the center, and the company said it will try to place those employees in other locations in the area.

Linda Connors, company spokeswoman, issued this statement Wednesday: “As an organization, Toys ‘R’ Us continuously assesses the ongoing changing dynamics of our business. Over the past few years, as we have expanded our omnichannel capabilities, we have added the ability to ship online orders directly to and from stores.

“Based on the success of this model, we have created greater efficiencies in our supply chain, which have enabled us to streamline operations.”

The facility, which opened in 1991, had 256 employees in 2001 compared with 71 today, said Youngstown Mayor John A. McNally. The city collected $93,000 in income tax from workers last year, he said.

Though disappointed the facility is closing, McNally said he expects to find a new tenant for the building quickly.