Rite Aid gives distribution center in Washington a tech makeover

Rite Aid is in the process of upgrading its 266,000-square-foot distribution center in Des Moines, Wash. in order to serve more stores.

The move will accommodate the closing of a distribution center in Wilsonville, Ore., which comes with the loss of 136 jobs, according to local reporting. 

The new center in Des Moines will receive a full technology makeover to handle an additional 250 stores in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho starting in January 2024.

The upgrade will include an automated goods-to-person process which delivers items directly to associate workstations for increased productivity and speed. Office spaces, breakrooms, conference areas and locker rooms will also be upgraded.

“The Des Moines facility is an integral part of our distribution network, and we are now better equipped to execute with greater speed, agility, and effectiveness that will position us for long-term success,” said Ron Gilbert, Rite Aid supply chain senior vice president.

New warehouse production positions include pickers, receivers, sorters, and maintenance engineers.

Rite Aid will hold a job fair for prospective candidates to work at the new center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Dec. 12-13, at the Des Moines Distribution Center.