WEST DES MOINES, Iowa— The giant Midwest grocery chain Hy-Vee plans to ask hundreds of employees to move from corporate-level jobs to retail positions throughout its 280-store operation. The announcement follows the earlier elimination of at least 121 corporate positions. The the company blamed rising inflation, increasing fuel and construction costs, and supply chain disruptions. In addition, the company announced it would pause several projects, including store expansion and warehouse construction. Many workers facing displacement contacted attorneys about being given an unacceptable choice – take a demotion or be fired. It was unclear whether severance offers were made.
