News Summary
Ben E. Keith Foods has revealed plans for a new 707,000-square-foot distribution center in Alachua, Florida. This facility, set to be one of the largest in the state, will create over 400 new jobs and serve as the headquarters for the company’s Florida Division. Construction is slated to begin in early 2025, and the center will incorporate advanced technology to enhance efficiency and sustainability, addressing the growing demand for distribution services in the region.
Alachua, Florida – Ben E. Keith Foods has announced the groundbreaking of a new 707,000-square-foot distribution center in Alachua, which is set to become one of the largest and advanced facilities of its kind in the state. Situated on 148 acres, this new center will not only serve as a distribution hub but will also become the headquarters for the company’s Florida Division. The construction is scheduled to begin in early 2025, with an anticipated completion date in the fall of 2026.
The new facility is expected to create more than 400 new jobs in the Alachua area over the next five years, adding to the existing workforce of over 230 employees currently at Ben E. Keith’s Gainesville operations. This expansion aligns with the company’s growth strategy following its acquisition of Florida Food Service in 2022. Ben E. Keith aims to honor the Islam family legacy while exploring new opportunities for expansion in Florida.
In response to the growing demand for distribution services in the region, this state-of-the-art facility will incorporate advanced technology designed to improve efficiency and sustainability. Features of the new center will include 120 tractor-trailers and 105 dock doors, facilitating smooth logistics operations.
The construction of this distribution center marks a significant investment in Florida’s logistics and infrastructure, enhancing service capabilities across the region. Additionally, World Electric, a Sonepar company, has also established a new 266,000-square-foot regional distribution center in Hialeah Gardens, further indicating a trend of expansion and investment in logistical operations in Florida. These developments signify a growing commitment to meet increasing demands for distribution services while maintaining a reputation for quality and reliability.
Mayor Gib Coerper of Alachua has expressed enthusiasm about the project, highlighting the opportunities it will offer both the local communities and businesses. The expected job creation and economic benefits are anticipated to have a positive impact on the region.
This distribution center is part of a broader effort by Ben E. Keith Foods to strengthen its presence in Florida’s market, which has shown an increasing demand for advanced logistical support. As the company sets its sights on future growth, the new facility is poised to play a critical role in its ongoing operations and service enhancements.
The decision to build this center stems from a strategic need to meet the evolving dynamics of the distribution industry, fueled by a growing population and increasing consumer demand. As more businesses make logistical advancements to improve service delivery, projects like this one underscore the importance of investment in infrastructure capable of supporting such growth.
In conclusion, the construction of the Ben E. Keith Foods distribution center in Alachua not only signifies a major step for the company but also represents a significant investment in the local economy and logistics infrastructure, promising to bolster job availability and enhance service efficiency in Central Florida.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Alachua Chronicle
- Wikipedia: Logistics
- Industrial Distribution
- Google Search: distribution centers Florida
- Grocery Dive
- Google Scholar: Florida distribution centers
- CoStar
- Encyclopedia Britannica: distribution centers
- Progressive Grocer
- Google News: Florida distribution center
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
