Liz Claiborne Inc. (New York) announced it would cut 725 jobs, or 8 percent of its work force, as it tries to endure a consumer spending shutdown that has been particularly brutal for apparel retailers.
The company is also shutting its distribution center in Mount Pocono, Pa., and suspending merit pay increases for its employees.
Those cost reductions come on top of changes to Liz Claiborne’s operations that have been under way for more than a year. Since 2007, the fashion apparel manufacturer — which also owns such brands as Kate Spade, Juicy Couture, Lucky Brand and Kensie as well as the namesake Liz Claiborne brand — has shut six distribution centers, eliminated about 2200 jobs and sold, closed or licensed 14 of its brands.
“As we strive to enhance our liquidity and prudently manage our business through this uncertain time, business leaders across our organization are continually reviewing all costs and determining where they can make an impact,” said ceo William McComb.