In a sudden development this holiday season, a well-known furniture retailer in New England has ceased operations.
Circle Furniture, which had been serving customers for over fifty years, made the announcement on its official website.
"With a heavy heart, circumstance [sic] have gone against the business and we can no longer afford to continue operations, therefore all employees are being let go...effective Dec. 23," stated a layoff email obtained by the Boston Globe.
Details of the Closure
The company's website indicates that all stores are now closed until further notice.
Based in Acton, Massachusetts, Circle Furniture operated eight stores throughout the state, with its newest location opening on Cape Cod last summer, as reported by the Boston Business Journal.
It also previously maintained a store in New Hampshire.
According to Furniture Today, employees learned about the shutdown through a companywide email on Dec. 19, followed by another on Dec. 23 confirming their layoffs.
The retailer employed approximately 65 people. Under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN), companies with over 50 employees must provide 60 days' notice before mass layoffs. As of Wednesday, Dec. 24, no such filing was found on the state website.
Background of the Company
Circle Furniture began in the 1950s in Cambridge, Massachusetts, according to Furniture Today.
The business had been operating for nearly 70 years until its closure this week.
"We are dedicated to providing a wide selection of unique, quality furniture with a team of talented designers to help you every step of the way," the Circle Furniture website notes. "Besides sourcing expertly crafted and beautiful furniture, we take strides to be an important part of the local community—both by working with local factories and supporting local charities."
