UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV/AP) - TJX Cos. says it is shuttering its A.J. Wright discount stores, including the Mohawk Street location. They will also be cutting 4,400 jobs and converting stores to other brands such as T.J. Maxx.

Carol Meyrowitz, President and Chief Executive Officer of The TJX Companies, Inc., stated, “While I believe this move makes us a much stronger company and will benefit TJX in both the near-term and longterm, it was not an easy decision as many positions will be eliminated and it will be difficult for our affected Associates.

Ninety one stores will be converted into T.J. Maxx, Marshalls or HomeGoods stores and 71 will be closed along with two distribution centers. About 4,400 jobs will be cut and 3,400 staffers will remain employed at the converted stores.

TJX said the move allows the company, based in Framingham, Mass., to focus on its more profitable businesses.

All 162 A.J. Wright stores will close by mid-February. And 91 will reopen under a different name after eight weeks.

The move will cost $150 million to $170 million to close the stores and $12 million to $15 million to convert the 91 stores that will reopen.

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