FORT MILL, S.C. — Employees of Earth Fare stores said they're worried they won't get paid after the company announced it was closing and filed for bankruptcy.
The Asheville-based company decided to close all stores, including those in the Charlotte area.
"It's really disappointing, because they had some great products, great service and a neat atmosphere,” said David Burkhurdt, who shops at the market in Fort Mill.
Earth Fare employs 3,400 people.
"People are genuinely upset to the point of tears,” manager Beth Robertson said.
Robertson has worked for Earth Fare for 3 ½ years.
"I don't think there is any assurance in the world that is going to prevent me and my co-workers from worrying about it," she said about the possibility of not getting a paycheck.
Robertson said it has been difficult emotionally because of pay concerns and the fact she had a special bond with her customers.
"I will miss that a lot,” Robertson said. “It's not just my livelihood. It wasn't just a job. This was something that I truly, truly loved doing."
A couple of employees filed a class-action lawsuit on behalf of all the employees demanding to be paid severance in accordance with labor laws.
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