The Kroger Co., America's largest grocery retailer, will expand its fulfillment network with the opening of a 48,000 square foot hub in Indianapolis, Indiana. The project is expected to create 150 jobs.

According to company officials, the addition of a delivery "spoke” will collaborate with a hub in Monroe, Ohio. The location will connect customers with fresh food, as well as bring innovation and modern e-commerce to the Indianapolis area. In addition it will also extend the grocer's reach “to provide its customers anything, anytime, anywhere. “

"This fulfillment center, is another example of how Kroger is transforming e-commerce in the grocery industry using a vertically integrated network to provide a reliable and consistent delivery service that repeatedly receives favorable customer feedback like a best-in-class Net Promoter Score. Our expansion in Indiana represents our commitment to delivering fresh, affordable food in both existing and new geographies," said Bill Bennett, Kroger vice president and head of e-commerce. "As our e-commerce business accelerates, we're excited to continue expanding our reach and loyalty by delivering our customers an exceptional service for as little as $6.95 powered by high-tech facilities."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) has committed to invest in Kroger (dba Kroger Fulfillment Network LLC) in the form of performance-based tax credits based on the company's job creation and investment plans.

"Indiana's pro-business ecosystem is an easy sell for companies like Kroger," said Brock Herr, senior vice president of business development for the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "We're delighted to see Kroger continuing to grow with Indiana, working toward delivering innovative, technology-driven solutions to meet ever-evolving customer needs and producing even more opportunities for Hoosiers."

At launch, Hoosiers in 35 Central Indiana ZIP codes, mostly in the Indianapolis area, can experience Kroger Delivery, company officials explained. Richmond, which is near the "hub" in Ohio, is also part of the coverage area. The delivery network will also continue to leverage stores and third-party partners to deliver certain orders.

"We're excited to be part of the announcement of Kroger's new delivery facility," said Portia Bailey-Bernard, Vice President, Indianapolis Economic Development, Develop Indy. "This accelerates us toward our goal of a more equitable, accessible, nutritious, healthier food system for Indianapolis. Providing greater accessibility to fresh food without relying on personal transportation creates neighborhood equity in Indy through fresh, grocery delivery."