Grocery retailer Kroger Co. and online grocery retailer Ocado have announced plans for a new high-tech customer fulfillment center (CFC) in Forest Park, GA. The $55 million investment will create more than 400 new jobs. The Forest Park CFC will be located in the Gillem Logistics Center and occupy 375,000 square feet. The CFC is scheduled to break ground later this year and be operational in 2021.
“Kroger is incredibly excited to construct one of our industry-leading Customer Fulfillment Centers in Forest Park—a city south of Atlanta—through our relationship with Ocado,” said Robert Clark, Kroger’s senior vice president of supply chain, manufacturing and sourcing. “Through our strategic partnership, we are leveraging advanced robotics technology and creative solutions to redefine the customer experience across America.”
Kroger has committed to building 20 CFCs, powered by Ocado, to accelerate its ability to provide customers with anything, anytime and anywhere. The CFC model – an automated warehouse facility with digital and robotic capabilities, also known as a “shed” – will be replicated to serve customers across America. Last month, Kroger broke ground on America’s first CFC, which is being constructed in Monroe, OH.
“Kroger and Ocado’s first customer fulfillment center in Metro Atlanta will transform the ecommerce experience for customers in the region,” said Luke Jensen, CEO of Ocado Solutions. “In a fast-developing landscape for grocery retail, Kroger’s determination to continue delivering the best experience for its customers, online as in stores, is unparalleled.”
“The new facility will provide Kroger the ability to bring customers across the coverage area fresher food faster than ever before,” said Tim Brown, president of Kroger’s Atlanta division. “I’m thrilled the Atlanta market was selected as one of the 20 CFC sites, and this location is a tribute to the commitment and enthusiasm Kroger has for the City of Forest Park, Clayton County and State of Georgia.”
“I am so excited that Kroger and Ocado are bringing this facility to Forest Park,” said Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. “Georgia has emerged as a hub for technology and innovation, and with access to our unrivaled logistics infrastructure and skilled workforce, I have no doubt that this new distribution center will allow Kroger to carry its operations to new heights.”
“This announcement by Kroger and Ocado is a testament to the strength of Georgia’s business climate and the draw of our talent and logistics,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “We are looking forward to watching the success of this new facility as they ramp up operations in Georgia.”
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