CINCINNATI, OH - Expanding its reach and interest in Kentucky, Kroger announced it is investing $17 million in ramping up production for its Florence, Kentucky-based distribution center.

"This significant investment in the distribution facility and our associates will allow us to more efficiently reach our customers and help to deliver on new ways to shop with Kroger, as we redefine the grocery customer experience through Restock Kroger," said Frank Bruni, Vice President of Supply Chain and Logistics. "We have long appreciated the support from Boone County and the state of Kentucky, and look forward to growing together."

In addition to boosting production, the investment will add an estimated 250 new jobs, the majority of which will be full-time positions.

Now spanning 674,000 square feet, the distribution center currently employs 80 associates. It opened in October of 2017, after Kroger invested $60 million in the replenishment center to service the company's direct-to-store distribution centers across the eastern half of the country, as well as Kroger's growing e-commerce and digital business, according to a press release.

The project is supported by a Kentucky Business Investment (KBI) incentive of up to $1 million over 10 years. The company noted its annual eligibility for the performance-based tax credit is linked to investment, job creation and retention, and average hourly wage targets.

"It was less than a year ago that Kroger opened its distribution center in Boone County, and it is clear from this additional investment that the company recognizes Northern Kentucky as the best possible location for further success and growth," said Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin. "Distribution and logistics is a thriving industry in the commonwealth, and this announcement is just the latest confirmation of that fact. We greatly appreciate Kroger's confidence in the Northern Kentucky region and its ongoing commitment to investing and growing in our state."

Kentucky Senator John Schickel, of Union, said Northern Kentucky is on an economic development roll and Kroger's investment builds on that success.

"We are grateful to Kroger for this huge investment of nearly $18 million into our local economy in Boone County," said Senator Schickel. "Employment is on the rise in Northern Kentucky, and these 250 new jobs will keep our economic momentum going. Thanks to Governor Bevin and the folks at the Cabinet for Economic Development for making this expansion possible and for continuing to create a strong business climate in the commonwealth."

Kentucky Representative Sal Santoro, of Florence, Boone County Judge-Executive Gary Moore, and Judge-Executive of Kenton County and current Northern Kentucky Tri-ED Board Chair Kris Knochelmann all applauded the move.

The distribution facility will start to expand its team in September, accepting candidate applications here.

Kroger