Store employees: Only four Olympia Sports stores will stay open in Maine

SOUTH PORTLAND (WGME) – Hundreds of workers at Olympia Sports stores across the state are trying to figure out what will happen to them, after the chain was bought out.

The Maine-based business has been sold to an out of state company, and the company says a number of locations will shut down as a result.

According to a letter from Olympia Sports owners to individual stores, the company was purchased by another sports apparel store, JackRabbit.

"Shock is the first thing that came to mind. I mean, it came pretty much right out of nowhere," Olympia Sports Assistant Manager Tristan Andrew said.

Store employees say they're told the sale will close about 20 stores in the state, only four stores in Maine will remain open as Olympia Sports.

"The stores that will remain open are the Maine Mall, Auburn, Waterville, and Falmouth," Andrew said.

According to Olympia Sports, some employees who are losing their jobs have the chance at transferring to one of the remaining locations.

Some employees say even if a store is remaining open, it doesn't guarantee you will keep your job.

"It remains to be seen what's going to happen to myself and my colleagues, but I'm sure they'll find a spot for us, Olympia Sports has been more than accommodating," Andrew said. "It's really no secret that retail, well there have been better days."

Employees say all the stores that are closing will be shut down by January 31 of next year.

Despite the number of people searching for jobs and answers, some say the company will find a way to come out stronger in the new year.

"It's a new chapter for Olympia Sports, but I'm sure Olympia Sports will rebound stronger than ever before, and I'm sure folks will come and buy our shoes," Andrew said.