Weekly News Update — January 10, 2025

Struggling REI Cuts Hundreds of Employees, Axes Tour and Events Business

REI has laid off over 400 employees as a result of its discontinuing the Experiences department, a financially unsuccessful outdoor events, sports, and tours program. The retailer, accused of straying too far from its co-op roots, maintains that the decision was based in a move to improve profitability by reallocating resources to enhance its retail operations. Read more.

3 Macy’s in WA, Including Redmond Store, on Closure List

Macy’s has announced the closure of 66 underperforming stores nationwide, including 3 locations in Washington, impacting an unannounced number of workers. While the company has offered severance and potential placement at nearby stores for select employees, the company plans to shut down another 150 locations by 2026. Read more.

WA State L&I Refuses to Pay Kitsap County Woman’s Medical Bills after Suffering On-the-job Injuries

Shelley Withee, a Kitsap County woman injured in a hit-and-run crash while on the job was denied medical coverage by L&I, citing that her neck injury wasn’t covered under workers’ compensation. Withee, along with the thousands of Washington state workers who apply for workers’ comp every year, has faced ongoing struggles to get her medical expenses covered. If you are facing similar challenges with your claim, visit the link in our bio to see how Emery Reddy may be able to help you. Read more.