Meijer Distribution Inc. is investing $146 million to purchase and remodel an existing facility in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, for a new distribution center in LakeView Corporate Park. Once completed, the 770,000-square-foot facility is expected to employ 271 full-time workers and 42 part-time employees.

The new facility is expected to serve stores in Wisconsin, Illinois, and possibly other states. Meijer currently has plans to open stores in Grafton, Oak Creek, Kenosha, Wauwatosa, Sussex, and Waukesha, Wisconsin, over the next two years.

“This is great news for Kenosha County, which has proven that it is a very attractive area for job creators looking to grow and expand here in Wisconsin,” said Governor Scott Walker. “We’ll continue to do our part to improve the business climate in the state by cutting taxes, streamlining regulations, and investing in worker training, to keep our positive economic growth heading in the right direction.”

“We’re pleased that Meijer – after reviewing numerous options – decided to open its facility in southeastern Wisconsin,” said Reed Hall, Secretary/CEO of Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, the state’s lead economic development agency. “This is a growing company that has been in business for generations. We’re happy that the next phase of its growth will take place in Wisconsin.”

Meijer Distribution Inc. is eligible for up to $5.25 million in tax credits from the WEDC over the next eight years. The actual amount of the credits will be contingent upon the number of jobs created. The WEDC announcement comes one week after company President Hank Meijer said the Michigan-based retailer was planning a major push in Wisconsin. KABA is currently working with Meijer, Gateway Technical College, and the Kenosha County Job Center to help the company meet its hiring needs for the new facility.

“Meijer’s decision to operate in Pleasant Prairie is another strong signal that Kenosha County is the premier location for new investment in the Chicago-Milwaukee corridor,” added Todd Battle, President of the Kenosha Area Business Alliance. “This is a major investment by a strong company with an incredible brand, a great history, and bright future.”