DEKALB, ILL. — The Kraft Heinz Co. plans to invest more than $400 million in an automated consumer packaged goods (CPG) distribution center in DeKalb, approximately 60 miles west of Chicago. The facility, which will be located along I-88 with national railway access, will total 775,000 square feet, making it one of the largest automatic distribution centers in North America, according to the company.
The facility’s design includes a 24/7 automated storage and retrieval system, which will distribute more than 60 percent of Kraft Heinz’s foodservice products and approximately 30 percent of all dry goods.
Kraft Heinz also expects the facility to contribute to the company’s broader environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals. More specifically, the company plans to implement sustainable technology to reduce the waste produced at the facility and minimize its overall environmental impact.
Kraft Heinz says the plant will generate more than 150 jobs in the region.
“As we continue on our journey to lead the future of food, our talented North America teams and collaborative external partners are innovating at a rapid pace to expand our supply chain capabilities,” says Carlos Abrams-Rivera, executive vice president and president of North America at Kraft Heinz. “The DeKalb distribution center is expected to play a critical role in our larger distribution strategy, moving more than 60 percent of Kraft Heinz dry goods in North America through our automated facilities.”
Trammell Crow Co., a global real estate development firm headquartered in Dallas, will develop the project. Oak Brook, Illinois-based Krusinski Construction Co. will be the general contractor. Daifuku will provide logistics automation. The City of DeKalb and the DeKalb County Economic Development Corp. are also partners on the project development.
The Kraft Heinz Co. expects to deliver the facility in 2025.
— Channing Hamilton