16Nov2010
Sobeys Invests $31 Million Into New Thrifty Foods’ DC On Vancouver Island
Sobeys Inc., Victoria, British Columbia, says it will begin construction of a new $31 million distribution center on 19 acres of land owned by the Victoria Airport Authority (VAA).
Construction of the 150,000 square ft facility is scheduled to begin in mid-2011 and is expected to be operational in late 2012.
“Sobeys remains committed to the future growth and development ofThrifty Foods here on the Island and across BC,” said Bill McEwan,
President and CEO of Sobeys Inc. “Since 2007, Sobeys has investedover $90 million in new and upgraded Thrifty Foods stores and distribution centers, adding more than 800 jobs in British Columbia.”
Over the past three years, Sobeys has invested in seven new stores, eight major renovations and the opening of its Surrey distribution center. Today’s announcement represents an additional $31 million investment into Thrifty Foods’ wholesale food distribution network.
Thrifty Foods currently has three distribution centers which distribute to all 25 Thrifty Foods stores and, through its wholesale division, to more than 60 independent grocers province wide. Butler Crescent, one of the three current distribution centers, will continue to operate as the Sobeys divisional office.
The new distribution center, to be at the intersection of McDonald Park and Mills Roads in North Saanich, is targeting a LEED level certification and will incorporate many sustainable and energy saving features including waste recycling, heat capture, energy use monitoring, gas leak protection systems and environmentally farmed wood products.
The Victoria Airport Authority is proud to welcome such a notable community-based company to the airport,” said Richard Paquette, CEO, Victoria Airport Authority. “The investment by Sobeys in a 18.91 acre site will stimulate the local economy and provide jobs for British Columbians for years to come.”
About Sobeys Inc.
Sobeys Inc. is a leading national grocery retailer and food distributor headquartered in Stellarton, Nova Scotia. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Empire Company Limited (TSX:EMP.A), Sobeys owns or franchises more than 1,300 stores in all 10 provinces under retail banners that include Sobeys, IGA, Foodland, FreshCo, Price Chopper and Thrifty Foods, as well as Lawtons Drug Stores. Sobeys Inc. is committed to providing the most worthwhile experience for its customers, employees, franchisees, suppliers and shareholders. More information on Sobeys Inc. can be found at www.sobeyscorporate.com.
