#USA #job creation #Ben E. Keith #Florida Distribution #Alachua

Ben E. Keith Foods Expands Operations in Florida

In a significant move to boost its operational capacity and job creation efforts, Ben E. Keith Foods has officially broken ground on a new distribution center in Alachua, Florida. This state-of-the-art facility will cover a vast 707,000 square feet and is set to become one of the largest and most advanced distribution centers in the region.

A Major Investment in Florida

This new center represents a major investment in the local community, with plans to create approximately 400 new jobs over the next five years. These positions will add to the existing workforce of over 230 employees at Ben E. Keith's Gainesville operations, reflecting the company's commitment to regional growth.

Mike Sweet, President of Ben E. Keith Foods, emphasized the company's dedication to continuing the legacy of Florida Food Service, acquired in 2022, and explored new opportunities in serving customers throughout Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. “We are deeply committed to Alachua County and the surrounding communities, and we look forward to many more years of shared success,” he stated.

Construction Timeline and Future Prospects

Construction for the new distribution center is slated to commence in early 2025, with completion anticipated by Fall 2026. This development comes at a time when the demand for quality food distribution services is on the rise, and Ben E. Keith aims to uphold its reputation for reliability and quality service.

The new facility will serve as the headquarters for the Florida Division, and it is aligned with the company's strategic expansion efforts across the Southeast. This move underlines Ben E. Keith Foods' commitment to not only meeting growing customer demands but also enhancing its operational efficiency with cutting-edge technology.

State-of-the-Art Features

What sets this distribution center apart is its commitment to integrating modern logistics systems designed for improved efficiency and sustainability. The facility will have extensive infrastructure, including 120 tractor-trailers and 105 dock doors, ensuring seamless operations day and night. This capacity allows the company to better serve both existing clients and potential new customers in the foodservice industry.

Mayor Gib Coerper expressed enthusiasm over the new development, stating, “Alachua is proud to welcome Ben E. Keith Foods' Florida Division to our area. It is amazing to watch such successful companies choose 'The Good Life Community' as their home.” Such sentiments highlight community support for business expansions that promise economic growth and job creation.

Looking Ahead

Ben E. Keith Foods has positioned itself as the fifth-largest broadline foodservice distributor in the United States, with a legacy dating back to its founding in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1906. With operations extending to over 20 states, the company remains a key player in the food distribution sector. The new center in Alachua will not only bolster its operational framework but also advance its aim of providing top-tier service across the Southeastern United States.

For foodservice operators and potential customers interested in learning more about the services offered by Ben E. Keith, additional information is available on their website.

Conclusion

The groundbreaking of the new distribution center marks a pivotal step for Ben E. Keith Foods as it continues to grow and expand its footprint in the Southeast. With an emphasis on technology and community involvement, this initiative is poised to create significant economic benefits for the region while reinforcing the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.