First Companies has announced plans to build a cutting-edge, 308,000 square feet distribution center in West Salem, WI, a strategic move aimed at enhancing customer service and optimizing supply chain efficiency. The new distribution center, with its state-of-the-art technology and innovative logistics solutions, marks a significant milestone in First Companies commitment to delivering unparalleled service to its valued customers and an outstanding employee experience.
“For First Companies, this project reflects our commitment to continuous innovation in how we deliver projects and solutions for all of our key partners: customers, vendors, and employees,” stated Katie Poehling Seymour, President & CEO.
The First Companies Central Distribution Center will begin construction in April 2024 with operations to begin during the first quarter of 2025. “We are thrilled make this investment in Western Wisconsin where our business was founded 126 years ago. Over the past five generations, we’ve grown across the upper Midwest, but our hub has always been in La Crosse County.”
Established in La Crosse, WI, First Companies is a regional distributor with 52 locations, including: 28 First Supply distribution branches, 5 First Waterworks branches, 1 CDC, 14 Gerhard’s Kitchen, Bath, and Lighting stores, and 4 Kohler Signature Stores by First Supply in the upper Midwest. Founded in 1897, First Companies employs over 650 people, is a family-owned, single source provider of HVAC-R, Builder, Plumbing, Lighting, Waterworks, Industrial PVF, Pump, Well and Septic supplies.
