DFS submits WARN notice to DOL

03/05/25 - DFS Group Limited officially submitted its Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act Notice to the CNMI Department of Labor on February 27, 2025.

“DFS advises you that on June 30, 2025, DFS will close permanently both stores located at the Saipan International Airport and at the DFS T Galleria in Garapan, Saipan. The last trading day to our customers will be April 30, 2025 for both Saipan Airport and Galleria Stores. Our employees will help with the transition of closure, and the expected date of the separation for employees pursuant to the closure will be June 30, 2025,” said DFS Group Limited MidPacific and Japan HR Director Catherine Galsim.

DFS reiterated its reason for closing, citing “challenging economic conditions, compounded by the departure of luxury brands.” They also noted that DFS wants to streamline its operations and refocus on profitable markets in Asia.

“The closure is expected to be permanent,” Galsim said.

DFS employs 52 people on Saipan.

“Similar to the Hyatt situation, We will be sending WIA to assist the 52 US eligible workers there. There are no CWs there,” Secretary of Labor Leila Staffler told Marianas Press.

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Story by Thomas Manglona II