Sharpie maker Newell Brands to ax 900 jobs, close Yankee Candle stores

Core Viewpoint - Newell Brands is implementing significant restructuring measures, including job cuts and store closures, in response to economic challenges and declining sales [1][7]. Group 1: Job Cuts and Restructuring - The company will cut 900 jobs, representing 3.8% of its global workforce, and expects to incur restructuring charges of up to $90 million [1][3]. - The job cuts will affect approximately 10% of Newell's global professional and clerical employees, with a total workforce of about 23,700 as of December 31, 2024 [4]. Group 2: Store Closures - Newell will close around 20 Yankee Candle stores in the US and Canada, which collectively account for roughly 1% of brand sales of scented candles, by January next year [1][3]. Group 3: Financial Impact and Projections - The restructuring is anticipated to yield annualized cost savings of approximately $110 million to $130 million [4][6]. - The company now expects a decline in fourth-quarter net sales to be at the upper end of its previous forecast range of 1% to 4%, with slower-than-expected sales recovery in Latin America [6]. Group 4: Market Performance - Newell has experienced a significant decline in its stock value, with shares down 63% this year, although they rose more than 3% on the day of the announcement [7][8].