Area Development
American retailer Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, Inc. will establish a new distribution center in Princeton, Illinois. The $68 million project is expected to create 145 jobs over the next three years.

The 600,000-square-foot facility, planned for completion in 2024, will service 150+ company stores across the Midwest.

“We are excited to make the next key step in our nationwide expansion happen by building our fourth distribution center in Princeton, IL,” said Eric van der Valk, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Ollie’s. “Illinois is one of Ollie’s fastest growing states with ten stores and counting to open in the upcoming months. Its central location to our other markets in the Midwest region and the strong workforce made Illinois the perfect spot for breaking ground to bring customers more bargains. We appreciate our strong partnerships with Governor Pritzker, Mayor Quiram, City Manager Wittenauer and their teams and look forward to becoming a valued part of the Princeton and Illinois community.”

Ollie’s received an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) tax credit.

“I’m excited to welcome Ollie’s first distribution center to Illinois and to the Midwest, and proud that this facility will create full-time jobs and support the local economy in Princeton,” noted Governor JB Pritzker. “Illinois’ top-notch location and infrastructure are well-suited to support the needs of a fast-expanding company like Ollie’s and their decision to locate here further solidifies the state as a first-class destination to do business.”

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania-based Ollie’s Bargain Outlet is one of America’s largest retailers of closeouts, excess inventory and salvage merchandise. The company currently operates 400+ store locations in 28 states, along with a Store Support Center in Harrisburg, and three distribution centers, one in York, Pennsylvania, Commerce, Georgia and Lancaster, Texas.

“When Ollie’s contacted us about finding a Midwest location, we showed them sites throughout Illinois that reach the entire region efficiently,” added Intersect Illinois CEO Dan Seals. “In the end, Princeton’s location and strong talent pipeline made it the best choice for their growth.”