A Dubuque distribution center is laying off 74 employees and closing its doors this fall.

The Duluth Trading Co. distribution center on Chavenelle Road is closing, and its 74 employees will be laid off on Oct. 27, according to a notice filed today with the state.

“Obviously it’s very disappointing news,” Greater Dubuque Development Corporation President and CEO Rick Dickinson said. “They have only been here for a little over four years, and this is devastating for the 40-plus full-time and 30-plus part-time employees working there.”

He said discussions about what business potentially could fill the large warehouse space have already started, and all Duluth employees will be invited to an upcoming GDDC job fair. The Sept. 5 job fair originally was planned to assist laid off John Deere Dubuque Works employees, but Dickinson said officials have shifted to ensure Duluth employees are included, as well.

Dubuque Mayor Brad Cavanagh said while news of the closure is “disappointing,” he expressed confidence that the city’s process and partnership with GDDC will ensure displaced workers can find new jobs quickly.