Distribution center closed: Thirty jobs lost in Sherbrooke

The COOP Alentour distribution center in Sharebook will finally cease its operations and close its doors on March 31.

The Satou Company of Montreal, which was supposed to buy it, decided to back out. The decision came down earlier this week.

As a result, thirty workers will lose their jobs. If it’s any consolation, the closure comes at a time when businesses in Sherbrooke are competing for workers.

Satou, one of the largest distributors of organic products in Quebec, acquired the catalog and some 200 brands distributed by COOP earlier in the year.

The group ultimately decided not to buy the centre, preferring to repatriate distribution operations to its Montreal headquarters.

In December, COOP Alentour announced a restructuring of its business model, closing its La Grand Roche store to focus its operations on rue Jean-Paul Perrault.

Of the 60 employees who worked at the distribution center four months ago, only 30 are left today. Satou Group employs five people.

Employees met at the site told TVA Nouvelles they had mixed feelings.

Many have already found a new job, but older people who have already reached retirement age want to take time to think about their future.

Put up for sale just a few days ago, the building on Boulevard Industrial is already generating a lot of interest. Many potential buyers are interested in the 25,000 square foot warehouse.