Supreme, North Face brand owner to leave Henry County in 2025

VF Corp., the parent company of apparel brands including Timberland, North Face and Supreme, plans to close its Henry County distribution center in March 2025.

VF spokesperson Ashley McCormack said the closure is intended to reduce the company’s operational costs.

“We have evaluated how we are shipping products to best meet the needs of our customers,” McCormack said in an email. “As a result, we have made the difficult decision to close the Martinsville, VA Distribution Center. This transition will deliver operational efficiencies, consolidate our operations, and reduce real estate costs.”

Local officials were made aware of the closure.

“The news of any company closing down is obviously disheartening and provokes a lot of anxiety amongst the affected employees and the community as a whole,” Henry County Administrator Dale Wagoner said by email. The county and Economic Development Corporation are working to find a new tenant for the 500,000-square-foot building, he said.

VF invested $10 million to expand the distribution center in 2021. The project also received a $225,000 investment from the state. It was unclear Tuesday whether VF will have to repay that investment.

At the time, Gov. Ralph Northam welcomed the company.

“VF Corporation has thrived in Henry County for nearly 20 years, and we are thrilled to see the company continue to invest in the Commonwealth,” Northam said in 2021. “Virginia’s strong outdoor recreation economy supports the growth of companies like VF Corporation. We look forward to the company’s continued success here in the Commonwealth as our ecotourism industry grows.”

At the time, it was announced that the expansion would create an additional 80 jobs. The company has not said how many positions will be lost in the pending closure.

“The biggest impact and focus for us in this transition is our VF associates,” McCormack said. “The distribution center will continue to operate as it currently does through March 2025, and we will support the team through the final days of operations. The entire VF organization extends its deepest gratitude and appreciation to our teammates who work within the facility for their steadfast dedication and commitment for over the last two decades.”

The company has operated in Henry County, via its distribution center, since 2003. Wagoner offered VF employees some words of encouragement.

“Regardless of your situation, it is important to remember that your circumstances don’t define you and we want to encourage people to explore opportunities available here locally,” Wagoner said. “There are numerous world-class industries who are hiring in our community and Patrick & Henry Community College offers a robust curriculum to help students gain new skills. Either of those options can provide a pathway to a new career more fulfilling than you ever thought possible.”

VF is expected to release its fourth quarter earnings report on Wednesday.

The post Supreme, North Face brand owner to leave Henry County in 2025 appeared first on Cardinal News .