“It is a major investment for the cooperative that we think will more than pay off in terms of enhancing customer service and support,” said Johnstone CEO DeWight Wallace. “This new facility will allow Johnstone stores to significantly expand their region-specific product offerings and improve inventory availability at the local store level.”

The Illinois distribution center will become the largest in the Johnstone Supply distribution center network, officials said. It will cover 236,273 square feet and will include a new operational layout and information technology support system.

“The new IDC will ensure that service and delivery times remain at the highest level in the industry,” said Ray Kernagis, Johnstone’s supply chain vice president. “It was strategically planned to support the Central and Great Lakes region growth and capacity requirements for at least the next 10 years. And, it will help us not only further speed order fulfillment as far west as the Dakotas, it will reduce freight expenses.”