Maurices, a distinguished clothing retail chain headquartered in Duluth, Minnesota, has recently announced a strategic restructuring aimed at optimising its product development process. As part of this initiative, the company is implementing changes that involve leveraging strategic vendors to complete certain aspects of design and technical work for its products. The shift in approach has necessitated a reduction in corporate staff positions by approximately 10%.
The decision to revamp the product development model comes as Maurices seeks to enhance efficiency and agility in response to evolving market dynamics and consumer preferences. By partnering with trusted vendors for specialised tasks, the company aims to streamline operations and drive innovation while maintaining the highest standards of quality and customer satisfaction.
According to Chief Administrative Officer Sue Ross, the transition to this proven model represents a strategic move that aligns with Maurices’ longstanding commitment to delivering exceptional products and experiences to its customers. Ross emphasised the importance of maintaining strong relationships with strategic sourcing partners, who will collaborate closely with Maurices’ internal product teams to co-create assortments that resonate with consumers.
While this restructuring has led to the displacement of 14 associates in Duluth and 29 remote team members in the U.S. or at the Brooklyn, New York design office, Maurices remains dedicated to supporting its employees through this transition. All affected associates have been offered comprehensive severance packages, including salary, benefits, and outplacement support, underscoring the company’s commitment to treating its workforce with compassion and respect.
In a statement addressing the layoffs, Ross acknowledged the challenges facing industries today and emphasised the need for Maurices to adapt and evolve to ensure its long-term sustainability. Despite the difficult decisions necessitated by the changing business landscape, Maurices remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving its legacy as a trusted retailer with 93 years of history.
Founded in 1931, Maurices has grown to become a leading women’s apparel retailer, operating approximately 900 stores across the United States and Canada. As the company navigates this period of transition, it remains focused on delivering value to its customers while positioning itself for continued growth and success in the dynamic retail landscape.
