Citing the increasing ability to ship online orders to and from stores, Toys"R"Us announced that it is closing its Youngstown distribution center. 

Company spokesperson Linda Connors confirmed a report from an employee, who told 21 News, that he and his fellow workers were informed on Wednesday that the company will conclude shipping items from the facility on Salt Springs Road as of August 1.

A total of 70 full and part-time employees currently work at the center. Connors says the company is working diligently to place as many employees as possible at other company locations in the area.

This past March, Toys"R"Us reported a loss of one-billion dollars in the previous year.

Toys"R"Us issued the following statement:

As an organization, Toys"R"Us continuously assesses the ongoing changing dynamics of our business. Over the past few years, as we have expanded our omnichannel capabilities, we have added the ability to ship online orders directly to and from stores. Based on the success of this model, we have created greater efficiencies in our supply chain, which have enabled us to streamline operations.

Toys"R"Us has also informed the Youngstown Development Director of the closing plans.

Youngstown Mayor John McNally and his staff tried to confirm the closing independently, but only learned of the information from 21 News.

"Right now, they've got about 70 full-time and part-time employees, brings in maybe $90, $95,000 a year in income taxes to the city. So, it is a loss.  Toys"R"Us has been at that location, that distribution center for 23 years, so they've been a great partner for our Salt Springs Road Industrial Park," said McNally.