Associated Wholesale Grocers to Build New Distribution Hub; David Smith Comments
KANSAS CITY, KS - By the end of this year, Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) will have a new facility to boast of. The retail giant has announced plans to build a new state-of-the art distribution hub in Hernando, Mississippi. Set to be completed in 2023, the facility will feature automation technology and an evolved organizational infrastructure designed to enable long-term, sustainable growth and success for its retail members.
“Our industry is ever-changing, and it is our mission to provide our member-retailers all of the products, services, and tools they need to compete favorably in all markets served, all at the best possible cost,” Chief Executive Officer David Smith said. “This new facility has capabilities that checks all of those boxes. We are excited to be able to significantly expand what we stock and ship to our member stores while becoming more efficient and cost-effective in our operations. This new facility will be a critical component in our plan to build a safer, better, and more efficient supply chain. In addition to becoming the primary supply source for the region, we will also leverage this new operation as an expanded variety source to all of our facilities and member stores. This will create more value throughout the supply chain for AWG and our members.”
AWG stated in a press release that a unique, all-in-one facility will better meet the future needs of the company, its members, and employees.
AWG partnered with WITRON, whose system is integrated into every area of the new facility. This will increase through-put of products, increase efficiencies, improve accuracy, and reduce loss due to damaged goods.
Two existing distribution centers in the area—VMC Memphis and AWG Memphis Division—will eventually be consolidated into the new facility.
“In our process, we looked at the adjacent states in the region and found that Mississippi has just what we need,” Smith said. “They have a great site, the critical infrastructure, very supportive governmental officials, and a fantastic workforce poised to grow with us.”
For more information on the facility, check out the press release here.
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