Liz Claiborne to Close Distribution Center

Upper Macungie, Pa. As part of Liz Claiborne’s effort to adopt a new business model, the company said Monday it will close its distribution center in Upper Macungie, Pa., in February.

The move comes as the apparel company shifts its focus to its best-selling brands by opening more of its own specialty stores.

“As part of the new strategy, we have been evaluating our distribution functions to better align with the current realities of our business,” said Dana Stambaugh, the company’s corporate communications director.

The 500,000-sq.-ft. DC is the company’s fifth-largest shipping hub, behind other properties in California, New Jersey and Ohio.

Liz Claiborne CEO William McComb announced sweeping changes in July, including a goal of opening 300 specialty retail stores, for a total of 800 locations, by 2010. Those stores would focus on such brands as Juicy Couture, Kate Spade and Lucky Brand Jeans.