Flexco, based in Tuscumbia, Ala., is set to open a new 150,000 sq. ft. distribution center next year in nearby Muscle Shoals, a town about five miles from the company’s headquarters. The move is aimed at giving Flexco room to grow as well as help offset high fuel costs. In a related announcement, Flexco noted it would stop using a shipping company out of Jonesboro, Ga., where many of Flexco’s products are currently shipped, once the new facility opens.

“We are always looking for ways to manufacture and distribute our products as efficiently as we can,” said Gary Schroeder, vp business development for Flexco parent company Roppe. “We’re looking at growth plans for the future and a more efficient location from which to serve our customers.” The Muscle Shoals location is ideal for both those reasons, he said.

Schroeder said the company plans to make “some improvements” to the building, and hopes to be operating from the site “by the end of the first quarter in 2009.” He noted that while there is roughly 150,000 sq. ft. of space available, the company will conserve some of that space for future growth. He added the new facility will result in new jobs for the area.

“Right out of the chute we’re going to need about 15-20 people,” he told NFT. “As we continue growing, we hope to get that number up to 30-35.”

–Michael Chmielecki