Numerous Bexar County Companies Lay off Workers In 2024
SAN ANTONIO, TX – Several companies located in Bexar County have laid off substantial numbers of their workforce in 2024. According to the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act Notices, over 880 employees in the Bexar County area have experienced job losses this year.
Overview of the Companies Affected
This year, many companies have submitted WARN Act notices having laid off workers. Some of these businesses include ABM Industries, Inc., BIMBO Bakeries USA, Inc., Joyson Safety Systems, and all 99 Cents Only Stores in the county. Other companies include Kroger Fulfillment Network LLC-San Antonio, WFS Express, Inc., Technica Corporation, Quality Custom Distribution, HII Mission Technologies (HII Defense and Federal Solutions), and Coach USA (Kerrville Bus Company).
Impact on the Local Economy
According to David McPherson, Economics Department Chair at Trinity University, while the recent wave of layoffs, particularly with Bimbo Bakeries – where over 100 people lost their jobs, is significant for this year, it is relatively small compared to the overall size of San Antonio’s workforce. Despite a slight increase in the county’s unemployment rate, from 3.5% last month to 4.2% this month, the local economy remains strong.
Support for Displaced Employees
Workforce Solutions Alamo, a regional job support initiative, provides resources for those affected by layoffs, offering encouragement and practical tools to assist them in transitioning back into the workforce. James Keith, Director of Public and Government Relations for the organization, highlighted that they operate career centres across the region. Their primary aim is to help those affected get back into employment, regardless of the industry they were previously in.
“While certain manufacturing companies have shut down, other sectors, such as construction, are experiencing growth in the region,” Keith said. He further noted job opportunities in companies that are expanding in the area, including Toyota and JCB.
Transition to a New Career
Keith stated that Workforce Solutions Alamo is ready to aid those affected by layoffs to transition into a new career by evaluating their skills, identifying potential new industries to transition into, and providing customized training where necessary. The duration of the transition would depend on the specific industry and the individual’s situation. According to Keith, it could range from a few weeks to several months.
Bringing Hope Amid Job Losses
Despite the negatives associated with layoffs, Keith emphasised the hope available to those affected, as companies and organizations in San Antonio continue to thrive amid the economic challenges, providing new job opportunities for these displaced workers to transition into.
About the Author
Ivan Herrera, a digital journalist specializing in consumer and financial news, has been reporting in San Antonio since 2016. His extensive coverage includes trending stories, news of the day, and in-depth reportage.