Republic National Distributing Company has filed a notice that effectively puts 169 Jacksonville employees "on notice" as it discusses selling parts of its Florida operations to Reyes Holdings. The move signals possible shakeups for the local workforce but, on its own, does not mean layoffs are a done deal.
RNDC's local filing
According to the Jacksonville Business Journal, RNDC's filing identified 169 workers in the Jacksonville market and included a clear caveat that the notice "does not guarantee layoffs." The outlet reported that RNDC said it was "in employment discussions with a potential buyer" as part of the filing.
Buyer and timeline
In a joint press release, Reyes Beverage Group and RNDC said they have entered purchase agreements for RNDC operations in multiple states, including Florida, and that they are targeting a closing "as early as the end of May." Both companies said they are working to onboard employees and suppliers and to keep disruption as limited as possible during the transition.
A broader shake-up in distribution
The potential sale is part of a wider industry reshuffle. RNDC has lost suppliers and scaled back operations in recent months, including a high-profile exit from California and earlier workforce reductions. The Houston Chronicle has tracked the talks and the financial pressures that pushed RNDC to pull back in several markets.
What 'on notice' means for employees
The U.S. Department of Labor notes that covered employers must provide 60 calendar days' notice to affected employees, state rapid-response units and local officials under the WARN Act, giving workers time to prepare and seek services. Local organizations such as CareerSource Northeast Florida list reemployment, training and benefits resources for displaced workers and those dealing with uncertainty.
The deal is still subject to regulatory approvals and standard closing conditions. If it closes as planned by the end of May, Reyes would begin onboarding the acquired businesses and their staff. Journalists, local officials and employees will be watching company notices and public filings for firm dates and detailed staffing plans.
This story will be updated as new filings and company statements come out. For now, 169 Jacksonville workers have been put on notice, and whether they keep their roles, move over to Reyes or face layoffs ultimately depends on how the transaction and transition plans unfold.
