Kroger to Open New Louisville Fulfillment Center

Cincinnati-based Kroger Co. is adding a "spoke" facility in Louisville, Ky., that it said will serve as a cross-dock to connect customers with fresh food. 

The 50,000-square-foot facility located on Robards Lane will collaborate with a hub in Monroe, Ohio. Powered by the Ocado Group, a U.K.-based technology company that provides end-to-end online grocery fulfilment solutions, the location is expected to become operational later this year and employ up to 161 associates.

"We're proud to expand the Kroger fulfillment network to Louisville," said Gabriel Arreaga, SVP and chief supply chain officer for Kroger. "The new service is an innovative addition to the expanding digital shopping experience available to Kroger customers. The network's delivery spoke facility will provide unmatched customer service and improve access to fresh food in areas eager for the variety and value offered by Kroger direct to their homes."

Elected officials from the Bluegrass State welcomed Kroger’s expansion. "I want to thank leaders at Kroger not only for this announcement, but also for their continued commitment to the commonwealth over many years," Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said in a statement. "Kroger has long been a vital part of Kentucky's growing economy, and this new location helps ensure that will continue to be the case for years to come. I'm grateful for the company's expanding presence in our state."

Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer said in a statement, "Today's announcement is the latest way that Kroger is showing its commitment to the Louisville market. Kroger has long been a valued partner in our community, providing jobs, reinvesting in our city through continued growth, and giving back through its charity.”

Last month the retailer revealed plans for a new customer fulfillment center (CFC) in North Carolina. The high-tech CFC, measuring 200,000 square feet, will be in Cabarrus County and will employ up to 700 associates over the next five years to fill online grocery orders.

Kroger Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen in a statement said Kroger delivery "underpins the permanent shift in grocery consumer behavior and elevates our position as one of America's leading e-commerce companies."