Dell Computers to close Patrick fulfillment center

A fulfillment center for Dell Computers at Patrick is closing.

The facility near Interstate 80 east of Sparks has been operated for Dell by CEVA Logistics, a Houston-based third-party logistics provider. The distribution center served Dell customers in 13 Western states, and workers combined finished computers with accessories and peripherals before shipping them to consumers.

A spokesman at Dell's headquarters in Round Rock, Texas, said the moves comes as the computer maker continues to squeeze costs and reduce complexity throughout its organization.

"We're positioning our fulfillment operations closer to our customers, which we believe will position Dell for future growth," said Dell spokesman Venancio Figueroa III.

CEVA Logistics didn't respond to a request for information about the number of employees at the facility.

The Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation says CEVA employed between 70 and 79 workers in Storey County at last count, and the company was the ninth-largest employer in the county.

The Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada is offering its assistance to the CEVA workers.

"This closing is unfortunate for the region as it's facing record unemployment," said Chuck Alvey, EDAWN's president and chief executive officer. "EDAWN has been in touch with the company to assist with any displaced employees and will work with local workforce partners and others as needed to help these impacted workers."

Hire Dynamics, a staffing agency in Reno, had 29 employees at the CEVA site who will be affected by the closure.

Emily Ellison, regional manager for Hire Dynamics, said new positions already have been found for 14 of those workers.

Dell itself has fewer than 10 employees at the fulfillment center. The company said some will transfer to other positions in the company, and some will be offered severance packages.

The final shipments from the plant will be completed late this month.