FedEx to Close Kirkwood Facility Amid Major Restructuring
In a significant shift for its operations, FedEx has announced the impending closure of its Kirkwood Ship Center in Broome County. The facility, located at 21-23 Link Drive, will cease operations by June 29, marking the end of decades of service in the area. This closure is part of a broader strategy, dubbed “Network 2.0,” which aims to streamline the company’s operations by shutting down over 475 locations nationwide by the end of the year.
Impact on Employees and Operations
The decision to close the Kirkwood site comes as FedEx embarks on a major restructuring initiative. Employees were informed of the closure several months in advance, with the last dispatch day set for June 27. While the shutdown will affect many workers, FedEx has stated that some employees will be offered alternative roles within the company. A spokesperson emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting affected staff through job placement assistance, relocation aid, or severance packages as necessary.
Despite the closure of the Kirkwood Ship Center, FedEx’s automated package sorting center on Industrial Park Drive will remain operational. This facility, which spans 470,000 square feet, opened its doors in October 2022 and is expected to continue functioning as part of the company’s logistics network. Additionally, several other FedEx Express ship centers across upstate New York, including locations in Ithaca, Elmira, Syracuse, Utica, Watertown, Plattsburgh, and Buffalo, are also slated for closure this summer.
As FedEx implements these changes, the company aims to consolidate its Ground and Express units, which is part of its ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. The impact of these closures on local communities and the workforce remains to be seen, but the restructuring is a clear indication of the company’s strategic pivot in a rapidly evolving logistics landscape.
