Delta Faucet Co. has finalized plans to build a new central distribution center of about 250,000 sq. ft. in Jackson, Tenn., at its existing manufacturing plant. Concurrently, work will begin at the Delta plant in Greensburg, Ind., on an expansion designed to enhance finishing capabilities.

"Space is becoming an issue at our plant warehouses due to the growth of our business," said John C. Wills, president of Delta.

The Jackson facility is expected to be fully operational by May 2003. Jackson was chosen as the site because of its central location in relation to many of Delta's large markets. This should allow for shorter shipping lead times.

The new central distribution center has been sized to provide for future growth in overall volume and number of new products. It will also provide space to allow for the shipping of related products, such as bath accessories, from sister companies. It will not affect operations in Delta's other plants in Greensburg, Ind., or Chickasha, Okla., which will continue to ship regionally.

The addition of a 27,000-sq.-ft. finishing facility to Delta's 477,000-sq.-ft. plant in Greensburg, Ind., will allow for increased production of the Brilliance line of lifetime finishes as well as the company's other lifetime finishes such as Venetian Bronze. Also, it will serve as a finishing development center. It should be completed by April 2003.