BJ’s Wholesale Club to build distribution center featuring Swisslog automation

BJ’s Wholesale Club announced that it is building its fourth ambient distribution center, to be located in Commercial Point, Ohio. The new facility, expected to open in early 2027, will join eight BJ’s clubs in Ohio.

The more than 500,000-square-foot facility in Commercial Point will feature Swisslog, a provider of warehouse automation, robotics and software. In a joint announcement, BJ’s said the new center will feature a “future-ready solution” from Swisslog, including automated pallet storage, robotics, case-handling equipment and mixed-case pallet building for club-friendly replenishment.

New project will serve as ambient-temperature grocery, general merchandise hub

The company’s new distribution center will expand its supply chain capacity to support its growing footprint. Over the past five years, the company has opened more than 30 clubs - its 250^th club in Louisville, Ky. Opened in January 2025.

“Our business has grown meaningfully over the years, and we continue to invest in our supply chain to better serve members,” said Krystyna Kostka, SVP, chief supply chain officer at BJ’s Wholesale Club. “With the opening of this new distribution center, we’ll have the agility to support our clubs more efficiently than ever - ensuring members have the products they need, when and where they expect them - all at unbeatable value.”

The new distribution center in Commercial Point will serve as a hub to replenish ambient-temperature grocery and general merchandise items in the BJ’s network. The building will sit on a 125-acre site, allowing for future expansion. VanTrust Real Estate, which has developed over 11.8 million square feet in Ohio since 2014, is managing the development with its Columbus-based team.

“Swisslog is pleased to support BJ’s Wholesale Club’s supply chain with innovative automation solutions that will help it maintain optimal inventory levels to support its growing network of clubs,” said Sean Wallingford, president and CEO of Swisslog Americas. “The project reinforces Swisslog’s commitment to empowering retailers with efficient, reliable and sustainable logistics solutions tailored to their unique business requirements.”