Sprouts opens SoCal distribution center
Phoenix-based grocer Sprouts Farmers Market has opened a new distribution center to better serve its stores in Southern California.
The new state-of-the-art facility in Fullerton, Calif. Will serve over 95 Sprouts locations within a 250-mile radius of the city, located in northern Orange County. Creating more than 190 full-time jobs, the distribution center will support and expand Sprouts’ local farm partnerships with California growers like Cyma Orchid, Five Crowns, HMC Farms, Kingsburg Orchards, Muranaka Farms and many more.
The 337,000-square-foot facility boasts a number of innovative features, including 34°F and 55°F storage and fruit ripening rooms to support the ripening process of Sprouts produce, and a significant reduction of transportation-related emissions by saving an estimated 725,000 miles from current delivery routes due to its closer proximity to stores.
Other sustainability features include tracking for future solar panel implementation and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, a framework for a healthy, high-efficient and cost-effective green buildings, and 11 electric vehicle charging stations for employee use, with room for future growth, as well as an EV terminal truck to assist with daily yard operations.
“We are committed to bringing the freshest, locally sourced produce to market, and the Fullerton distribution center exemplifies this commitment,” said Jack Sinclair, chief executive officer of Sprouts. “The facility not only augments our efforts to expand across California and the country, but also strengthens our commitment to environmental sustainability. Equipped with advanced ripening rooms, the new DC ensures optimal conditions for produce storage, providing shoppers perfectly ripe avocados and bananas. Our ability to deliver fresh, high-quality produce at an exceptional value is supported by our network of distribution centers, direct grower relationships, and enhanced quality control.”
In addition to the new Fullerton facility, Sprouts currently operates distribution centers in Aurora, Colo.; Union City, Calif.; Glendale, Ariz.; Orlando, Fla.; Wilmer, Texas; and East Point, Ga. Sprouts operates more than 400 stores in 23 states nationwide.
To celebrate the new opening, the Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation is awarding $65,000 to support new school gardening and nutrition education programs at Maple Elementary School and Commonwealth Elementary School in Fullerton.