Foxtrot, Dom’s employees, seen handing out items from stores after closures – NBC Chicago

Employees at Foxtrot and Dom’s Chicago locations reacted in different ways to the unexpected news that the businesses were closing abruptly and without notice on Tuesday.

Some began emptying items from store shelves, others were seen donating food from stores to those in need.

Employees at the Dom’s on Wells Street in Chicago were seen handing out free T-shirts to customers standing outside in the confusion.

Across the city, workers said they arrived at work and served customers before receiving notices that their stores were suddenly closing — with management telling them to post signs on their doors.

The closures include two Dom’s stores and 33 Foxtrots in the Chicago, Dallas and DC areas.

“We have explored many options to continue the business, but despite good faith and exhaustive efforts, have not found a viable option,” said a message from the companies.

The employees posted signs in doorways at multiple locations, with messages ranging from “Foxtrot closed forever (no joke)” and “$180,000,000 in the hole” to “Closed. It was nice serving you.”

“This decision was not made lightly and we understand the impact it will have on you, our loyal customers, as well as our dedicated team members,” the companies’ statement read. “We would like to express our sincere gratitude for your patronage and support over the years. It has been our highest honor to take the mundane to the next level and create a remarkable shopping experience for people who love food as much as we do. It It has been a privilege to serve you as part of your daily life. We understand that this news may come as a shock and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Area businesses took the opportunity to recruit employees from the stores that are now closed.

A group of Mariano’s employees were seen handing out business cards in hopes of helping Dom’s employees now out of a job.

The companies thanked the employees in their final announcement.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your loyalty and trust in Dom’s and Foxtrot. It was an honor to serve you, and we will cherish the memories we created together,” the message said. . “We would also like to thank our team members who have committed themselves over the years to offering a unique selection of quality food and creating an excellent in-store customer experience. Finally, we would like to thank our many partners, without whom we would not have not been able to build such a strong brand.”