Circle Furniture, a 70-year-old New England chain, unexpectedly closed all locations just before Christmas, resulting in layoffs. The company cited financial difficulties, leaving 65 employees without jobs. The closure may not be permanent, but no WARN Act notice was filed prior to the shutdown, potentially affecting employees’ rights.

American Signature Inc., the parent company of American Signature Furniture and Value City Furniture, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in November, leading to store closures. Similarly, At Home and American Mattress also faced financial challenges, resulting in bankruptcy and store closures across various locations.

The trend of unexpected layoffs before the holidays, a practice that declined post-Great Recession, has resurfaced, impacting workers at Circle Furniture. The closure marks the end of a family-run business that expanded across New England over decades, emphasizing quality home furnishings and community involvement.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: 70-year-old furniture chain abruptly closes, no bankruptcy