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SALT LAKE CITY -- The Distribution Services Division of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will close approximately a dozen stores in 2011 with additional locations closing over the next three years.
The materials, including sacred clothing, available at closing Distribution Service store locations will now be sold at nearby Deseret Book Company stores.
A statement from Distribution Services indicated that shopping convenience and more efficient use of resources were the major reasons for the new agreement between The Church and Deseret Book Company.
Consolidations will begin with Distribution Services stores located in Logan, Midvale, Orem, Spanish Fork and Pocatello.
In 2009, six Deseret Book stores were redesigned to include the sale of Church-produced materials and products.
"The initial arrangement with Deseret Book has gone smoothly and has proven to be a benefit for everyone involved," said division Director Evan Larsen.
Employees of Distribution Services stores being closed will be offered a voluntary severance package or assigned other work.
"We look forward to our expanding relationship with Distribution Services, and are committed to providing customers with the same premier service they've come to expect in Distribution Services stores," said Sheri Dew, president and CEO of Deseret Book Company.
Church members will continue to be able to purchase products through the new online Distribution Services store, which offers free shipping.
E-mail: sgarn@desnews.com
