National Retailer Closing 20 Locations, Laying Off 900 Workers: What It Means For GA

The Atlanta-based maker of Yankee Candle, which has four stores in Georgia, said Monday it plans to close 20 stores and lay off more than 900 workers, or 10 percent of its workforce, in a cost-cutting move.

Over the years, Yankee Candle stores have been a mall staple for stocking stuffers and other holiday gifts. Newell Brands, the chain’s parent company, did not specify which stores would close, but said they are located in the United States and Canada. Layoffs are set to begin this month, the company said in a statement.

Yankee Candle stores in Georgia are found at:

• 800 Highway 400 South, Dawsonville
• 3333 Buford Drive, Buford
• 915 Ridgewalk Pkwy., Woodstock
• 400 Ernest W. Barrett Pkwy., Kennesaw

Newell’s other brands include Sharpie, Mr. Coffee, Oster, Rubbermaid and Sunbeam.

Newell Brands, a publicly traded company, launched a turnaround plan in 2023 to boost sales. The strategy includes increasing the use of automation, digitization, and artificial intelligence “to simplify operations, accelerate decision-making, and strengthen execution across functions.”

“We’ve made meaningful progress executing our strategy and strengthening Newell Brands, but there is more work to do,” company president and CEO Chris Peterson said in the statement. “This productivity plan is about taking the next, disciplined step to enhance efficiency, sharpen our strategic focus, and deliver stronger, more consistent performance.”