Dover Saddlery, the Boston-area equestrian retailer, has alerted state officials that up to 112 corporate employees could lose their jobs as the company looks for a buyer. The notice covers staff at the company’s Littleton headquarters who handle distribution, e-commerce and other back-office work. Dover’s retail locations, including its Wellesley storefront, remain open for now.
According to the Boston Business Journal, Dover Saddlery filed a notice with state workforce officials stating it may lay off 112 employees while it markets the business to potential buyers. The outlet reports the filing was submitted on May 11.
What the Notice Means
Under federal and state WARN rules, employers with 50 or more workers must give 60 days’ written notice before a mass layoff or plant closing, and those filings can unlock state support for affected employees. Mass.gov notes that Rapid Response teams work with local MassHire career centers to provide job-search assistance, training referrals and other reemployment services.
Where Dover Operates
Dover Saddlery is headquartered in Littleton at 525 Great Road and operates dozens of retail locations across the region. The company lists its Littleton headquarters on LinkedIn, and its Wellesley store is located at 595 Washington Street, according to Apple Maps.
Company Background and Recent Financing
Founded in Wellesley in 1975, Dover Saddlery has grown into an omnichannel retailer focused on horse riders, with a national e-commerce operation backing up its brick-and-mortar stores. In August 2024, Schottenstein affiliate Second Avenue Capital Partners closed a $15 million revolving credit facility for Dover Saddlery, a financing package the lender said was intended to support inventory and strategic growth. Second Avenue Capital Partners provided the financing details.
Support for Affected Workers
If layoffs move forward, local MassHire Rapid Response teams typically coordinate with employers to set up on-site meetings, offer job-search help and make training referrals. State resources described on Mass.gov can also connect affected workers with unemployment guidance and upskilling grants.
As first reported by the Boston Business Journal, Dover Saddlery’s effort to find a buyer is the latest sign of pressure on specialty retailers. This story will be updated as additional filings, buyer interest or company statements emerge.
