UNFI’s DC upgrade continues with new site in Florida

Core Insights - United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) has opened a new 1-million-square-foot distribution center in Sarasota, Florida, which employs 400 workers and is the first in its network to utilize AI-enabled robots [1] - The new facility aims to enhance order accuracy, operational efficiency, and inventory management through automation, while also improving the associate experience [2] Investment and Expansion - The opening of the Sarasota North Distribution Center represents a significant investment in optimizing UNFI's distribution network for the future [2] - Over the past year, UNFI has expanded its distribution center network with similar investments in Centralia, Washington; Manchester, Pennsylvania; and Carlisle, Pennsylvania [3] Sustainability Initiatives - In 2023, UNFI completed a roof-mounted solar array at its Howell, New Jersey distribution center and implemented similar installations at its Riverside, California location [3] - The company upgraded its entire distribution center network with LED lighting to enhance energy efficiency [3] - UNFI aims to reduce food waste by 50% by the end of this year through initiatives like the Reverse Logistics Disposition Reporting system [4] Technological Advancements - Digital communication screen technology has been implemented in distribution centers in 2023 and 2024 to improve communication between regional teams and the centers [4]