Kroger Fulfillment Network Expands to Colorado

The Kroger Co. said it's getting ready to open another fulfillment facility, this one in the Denver metro area— another geographic expansion for the Cincinnati-based grocer.

The 300,000-square-foot facility will be located in Aurora, Colo. Powered by the Ocado Group, Kroger's U.K.-based tech partner for online-order fulfillment, the new site will employ as many as 400 associates, the grocer said in a statement.

"We are thrilled to expand and introduce our innovative Kroger fulfillment network to one of the fastest-growing areas in the country and have the opportunity to grow our workforce," said Gabriel Arreaga, Kroger's SVP and chief supply chain officer, in a statement. "Through the incredible partnership and support from the city of Aurora and Adams County, Kroger Delivery can accelerate its commitment to provide exceptional customer service through our state-of-the-art facility and end-to-end cold solutions, including custom-built refrigerated vans, to ensure our delivery customers receive the freshest products directly to their doorstep throughout the Denver region."

The announcement of the new facility represents another geographic reach for Kroger. Last month Kroger announced its expansion of its fulfillment network in Ohio.

"As we continue to expand our nationwide CFC (customer fulfillment center) program, Kroger and Ocado Group are now live with five ... fulfillment centers across the USA,” said Luke Jensen, CEO of Ocado Solutions, in a statement. “As this site ramps up, Kroger Delivery will bring a world-class online experience to homes across the Denver metro area, powered by some of the most advanced technology available anywhere in the world.”

State and local leaders praised the announcement of the new facility. "Adams County is excited to have this new state-of-the-art food distribution facility opening in our community," Lynn Baca, chair of the Adams County Board of Commissioners, said in a statement. "Not only will it showcase innovative sorting technology, it will also help provide greater access to high quality food and fresh produce for our residents. Providing a delivery option will also benefit those in our community who may have mobility issues, or simply lack the time to go into a physical location."