CHANDLER, Ariz. — Bashas' here said Friday it was reducing its administrative workforce by just over 100 people — less than 1% of the total, the company pointed out — because of such "uncontrollable factors" as the downturn in the economy and the rising costs of food, energy, fuel and health care. Some administrative job functions were consolidated, while other positions less critical to supporting day-to-day operations have been eliminated, the company said. "We're streamlining our operations and rightsizing our company due to this economic downturn," Mike Proulx, president and chief operating officer of the 163-store chain, said. "The goal is to impact our stores as little as possible." The company said affected individuals have been offered a severance package and have been put on a preferential hiring list for other positions as they become available.

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