Tractor Supply Company opens first automated distribution center
The newest supply chain hub for Tractor Supply Company is debuting an artificial intelligence-based architecture for the retailer.
The nation’s largest rural lifestyle retailer has opened a distribution center in Nampa, Idaho. Initially announced in in January 2025 with groundbreaking commencing in April 2025, the 865,000-sq.-ft. facility will be the 11th distribution center in the Tractor Supply network and represents an investment of more than $200 million in the Canyon County, Idaho area and is expected to create more than 500 full-time jobs.
AI automation
The Nampa distribution center is the first facility in the entire Tractor Supply network to implement Knapp OSR/ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System) technology. This automated architecture is fully integrated across the operations of the distribution center, including automatic conveying systems designed to store, sequence and move products safely and more efficiently. Walmart also leverages Knapp automation technology in its next-generation fulfillment centers.
All managers at the facility will be trained in AI fundamentals, and the site leverages a dedicated AI innovation team.
Construction and design
The building was completed in July, with inventory receiving beginning in August and outbound shipping officially launching in October. Built on a 116-acre site in Canyon County with additional acreage for future expansion, the facility features 80 truck docks designed to optimize inbound and outbound traffic flow.
The distribution center will immediately serve 123 stores across nine states in its first year, with infrastructure designed to scale to serve more than 200 stores at full operational capacity.
[READ MORE: Tractor Supply trims expansion; will close 75 Petsense stores]
Designed specifically to meet LEED Silver standards for energy efficiency, water consumption and sustainable design., the site incorporates high-efficiency water practices, electric vehicle charging stations, low-energy lighting, advanced stormwater management and a comprehensive recycling program. The facility’s 125 Knapp automated units operate entirely on lithium-ion battery power.
"As more people look to embrace the 'Out Here Lifestyle' and we continue to open new stores, this distribution center will be vital to get our customers the products they want and need," said Craig Ledbetter, chief supply chain officer at Tractor Supply. "Our distribution centers play a critical role in supporting our employees, stores and customers. The Nampa facility represents a major investment to help our team work safer and more efficiently, setting a new standard for how products move through our supply chain to deliver the legendary service our customers have come to expect."
As of June 27, 2026, Brentwood, Tenn.-based Tractor Supply Company operated 2,463 Tractor Supply stores in 49 states and 209 Petsense by Tractor Supply stores in 23 states.
