New jobs on the horizon

J. Crew, a national apparel retailer, will be expanding its Lynchburg, Va. distribution center adding 177 jobs and 100,000 square feet for storage and processing space, Governor Bob McDonnell announced Feb. 25.

J. Crew Group, Inc. includes retail and outlet stores nationwide and is comprised of women’s, men’s and children’s apparel, as well as shoes and accessories. According to the store’s website, J. Crew debuted in 1983 mailing its first catalogue.

The company opened a flagship store at New York’s South Street Seaport. Operating in 249 retail stores, J. Crew has significantly grown through online and catalogue business.

In a news release, the company said the construction at the facility on Enterprise Drive is expected to begin in spring of 2011.

“J. Crew’s decision to expand their operations in the City of Lynchburg is exciting and welcoming news,” said Lynchburg Mayor Joan Foster. “We look forward to assisting them with this project.”

According to the News and Advance, 700 seasonal employees will be hired each year to deal with increased demand from online orders during the holiday season. This is an opportunity for Liberty students to apply for summer or the holiday season.

“J. Crew starts you out with a good pay rate,” said former employee and junior Vanessa Wright. “They are flexible with a positive aspect of learning.

McDonnell said in a news release that J. Crew is eligible to receive benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program and may also be eligible to receive a Major Business Facility Job Tax Credit. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance plans to provide funding and support services for the J.Crew’s activities that involve recruitment and training.

“It’s hard to find a job that works with demanding schedule of a college student,” said senior Megan Gee. “It’s impressive that J. Crew is willing to work around a college schedule in order help students in need.”

J.Crew officials said the project should be completed by 2012, and they plan on releasing more information in the months ahead.

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