Tribune Chronicle
YOUNGSTOWN - About 30 truck drivers and mechanics at the Toys R Us distribution center will have to apply for jobs with J.B. Hunt trucking company, which is taking over store delivery operations, the toy company said Friday.
The change comes as Toys R Us, located in the Salt Springs Road industrial park, shifts its trucking operations to outside companies because a multi-million dollar investment would be needed in the next several years to maintain its own store delivery fleet.
A company information release stated outsourcing its store deliveries will allow it to "focus its capital on accelerating our capabilities in the areas that will make the company more competitive."
Company spokeswoman Kathleen Waugh said in an email that no workers wil be laid off but will have the chance to apply with Hunt. Workers who decide not to do so, or those J.B. Hunt is unable to hire, will be eligible for severance compensation.
The transition is expected to be completed around June 11, according to a company document.
Besides Youngstown, J.B. Hunt is taking over store deliveries from seven other distribution centers. Performance Team will take over deliveries at one center.