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Eugene, OR, USA, Sept 9, 2016 -- The Sykes call center is closing in downtown Eugene and 400 people are looking for a new job.

Just three years ago, Sykes opened in Eugene.

"We were all very excited when those 400 jobs came, so I think we're equally disappointed that they're leaving," said Dave Hauser, president of the Eugene Chamber of Commerce.

In 6 weeks, the call center and its 418 employees will all be gone.



"The bad news is the company is leaving. The good news is there's 44,000 square feet of office space available for lease in downtown," Hauser said.

For many people who work downtown, the news is concerning.

"It's so close to us that I can only imagine that a loss of employees and a loss of standing customers will impact our lunch business," said Grant Hubbard, kitchen manager at Sizzle Pie.

It’s also concerning for Sykes employees. They say the company told its workers to keep quiet.

A memo to employees states the location is closing because of business decisions.

It also reveals the office will close at the end of October while Sykes is "pursuing other client opportunities for the site."

The Florida-based company maintains there are plenty of positions available for anyone who wants them, including the 418 Eugene employees. There’s opportunity to work from home.

"Perhaps it creates an opportunity that wasn't there a week ago," Hauser said.

Hauser said it’s a high-quality space and he’s sure there will be a demand for it.

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Posted by Veronica Silva Cusi, news correspondent
Source: http://kval.com