WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ — Party City issued mass layoffs at its New Jersey headquarters, according to an email sent to employees.
According to CNN, all 850 Party City stores will soon close after nearly 40 years in business.
“I think it’s a shame because I grew up with Party City as a kid and it’s a place I looked forward to for parties,” said Stephanie Campos of New York City.
Campos was buying balloons at the Party City on West 14th Street in Greenwich Village when she heard about the chain’s reported closures.
“I’m grateful for the memories they gave me,” Campos said.
New Jersey Party City Employees Fired After Mass Email
Company employees at Party City’s headquarters in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, received an email Friday saying it was their last day after the company made the decision to implement mass layoffs.
The company recently emerged from bankruptcy, but faced stiff competition from online retailers.
“The convenience, especially in a city like New York, the convenience of ordering what you need and having it delivered,” says Jared Barnett.
Barnett wanted to go to his convenience store one last time for a final farewell.
‘I came to say goodbye. Lots of memories, you know, from growing up to planning get-togethers at my sorority. So just to come back again,” he said.
Customers at West 14th Street Party City said employees told them the location would close on March 31. In the meantime, the merchandise is discounted.
Party City did not respond to our request for comment.