Winn-Dixie facility's expansion almost done

Winn-Dixie Stores Inc has announced that the expansion and remodeling of its Hammond LA distribution center is nearing completion. It will replace a facility in Harahan LA that will close March 29. Harahan is part of the New Orleans metropolitan area.

This new distribution center will handle perishable products, such as dairy, produce, and meat items, for 96 Winn-Dixie stores in Louisiana and Mississippi. Perishable operations of the Harahan facility encompassed 128,000 square feet with a ceiling height of 15 feet. The new expansion in Hammond will have 210,000 square feet and 30-ft ceilings. This will allow Winn-Dixie to accommodate storage for its milk and juice processing plant as well as the addition of a number of banana ripening rooms. The salvage dock and parking area were also enlarged, and additional trailer parking was added.

The Hammond facility is about 50 miles northwest of the Harahan facility. All associates are being given the option to transfer. Those who choose not to work at the new facility will receive separation benefits based on tenure and position.