In an effort to support its expansion strategy, KeHE Distributors has opened its newest, LEED Certified, distribution facility in Portland, Oregon. This new state-of-the-art distribution center has more than 100,000 square feet of refrigerated and 57,000 square feet of freezer space, and the capacity to serve KeHE's customers who increasingly demand product assortments in all three temperature zones.

"Sustainability is a top priority of ours as we build, stock and operate our facilities," said Gene Carter, Chief Operating Officer, KeHE. "We are designing our new facilities from the ground up, which allows us to focus on the environment and our people as well."

The Portland distribution center will be highly-efficient; estimates are 100 tons of cardboard will be recycled annually and more than thirty tons of petroleum will be saved by recycling plastic. In addition, the entire facility will utilize motion-operated LED lighting.

As KeHE expands its national network of distribution centers, proximity has been optimized. Service-levels to customers will continue to improve and carbon footprint reduced. "It strategically aligns with our long-term growth strategy and demonstrates our commitment to our increased customer base on the West Coast," said Mike Leone, Chief Commercial Officer, KeHE. "Our customers continue to receive the benefits of our growing, national organization."

According to KeHE, the DC provides more efficient shipping and points of distribution for its vendor community, which can expect improved fill rates due to the larger size of the DCs and the wider assortment of products they can carry.

KeHE Distributors, LLC, a regular attendee of ECRM EPPS events, provides natural and organic; specialty and gourmet; international and multicultural; and fresh products to natural food stores, chain grocery stores, independent grocery stores and other specialty product retailers throughout North America.