AUBURN – The only OfficeMax in Maine escaped the hatchet that trimmed more than 100 stores from the Illinois-based office products retailer.

Auburn’s OfficeMax will not be affected by the company’s Jan. 10 announcement to close 110 of its 950 stores nationwide, according to a corporate statement released Friday.

“We appreciate the support of our customers throughout Maine and are pleased to confirm our continued service through our store in Auburn, our online service and our contract business services,” said Bob Povirk, OfficeMax territory senior vice president, in the release.

The Auburn store opened in 1999.

OfficeMax is not disclosing specific numbers of employees affected, either by store or nationally.

In general, there are approximately 20 associates per store.

The company is seeking to relocate employees with other area stores or other company facilities whenever possible.

Additionally, the company is recruiting among affected store personnel for approximately 1,000 positions at the OfficeMax headquarters in Itasca, Ill.

OfficeMax intends to open up to 70 new stores nationwide, but is not disclosing specific locations for them at this time.

The restructuring was prompted by disappointing sales in the competitive office products industry.

OfficeMax trails industry leader Staples and the No. 2 Office Depot, despite two years of changes, including a new store format featuring boutique-like shopping areas, soft lighting and cafes.

– Carol Coultas

Copy the Story Link