Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear highlighted continued growth in Kentucky’s distribution and logistics sector as Kroger, the largest traditional grocer in the United States, announced intentions to establish a new $391 million distribution center in Simpson County, a project that will create approximately 430 new full-time jobs for Kentuckians.
“I want to thank leaders at Kroger not only for this announcement of a new potential distribution center in Simpson County but also for their continued commitment to the commonwealth over many years,” said Gov. Beshear. “Kroger has long been a crucial contributor to Kentucky’s thriving 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 – and these 430 new jobs for our people.”
The new operation will serve as a full-line distribution center, featuring scalable and automated operations to help supply the region. This is in addition to the $204 million expansion in Bowling Green where Country Oven, a bakery owned by the Kroger Co., has reinvested in Kentucky.
Kroger was founded in 1883 and is headquartered in downtown Cincinnati. The company has more than 2,700 stores in 35 states, more than 400,000 associates and annual sales in excess of $147 billion.
Kroger maintains nearly 110 stores in Kentucky, employing more than 19,000 associates. The commonwealth also is home to four manufacturing and distribution facilities that service the company, as well as a regional headquarters in Louisville. Since 1987, Kroger’s floral designers have created the famous Kentucky Derby Garland of Roses, and Kroger and the University of Kentucky in 2017 entered a 12-year marketing agreement that included renaming the university’s football stadium to Kroger Field.
Simpson County Judge/Executive Mason Barnes spoke on the local impact of the project: “It is really great to have a corporate partner like Kroger choosing to locate in our community. The jobs being created and the amount of investment dollars are extremely beneficial to strengthening our local economy. I am very glad to have Kroger here; it certainly helps broaden our industrial diversity in Simpson County.”
Franklin Mayor Larry Dixon welcomed Kroger to the area: “We are thrilled to welcome Kroger to Franklin, Kentucky. This significant $400 million investment in our community will not only create approximately 430 jobs with competitive salaries but also strengthen our local economy. This project reflects our commitment to fostering growth and providing opportunities for our residents.”
Jim DeCesare, executive director of the Franklin-Simpson Industrial Authority, showed his enthusiasm for the project: “We are excited to see Kroger establish a distribution facility in Franklin. This $400 million investment represents not just a commitment to our workforce but also to innovation and growth in our industrial sector. The projected 430 jobs will have a lasting impact on our community and enhance our region's economic landscape.”