First Supply Distribution Center

We partnered with First Supply to design and deliver the Joe Poehling Distribution Innovation Center, a next-generation facility purpose-built to support high-volume distribution, operational efficiency, and future growth across the Midwest. Building on a long-standing relationship, the project represents a strategic investment in automation, infrastructure, and workforce enablement, positioning First Supply to scale its logistics capabilities while maintaining exceptional service standards.

Working closely with First Supply’s leadership and operations teams, we coordinated early planning around automation integration, material flow, and storage strategy to ensure the facility aligns with real-world warehouse operations. The distribution center incorporates advanced material handling and data-driven inventory systems, including an Exotec automated storage and retrieval system capable of housing more than 52,000 totes supported by 31 autonomous robots. Additional storage solutions include 12,700 selective pallet racking locations and a dedicated bulk storage area designed to accommodate more than 3,000 pallets for high-velocity, large-format inventory. Cubiscan technology captures precise weights and dimensions for incoming products, enabling business rules that drive accurate storage, picking, and transportation decisions. Sustainability and operational continuity were also integrated into daily operations through on-site solar panels generating approximately 50% of daily energy needs and autonomous after-hours floor cleaning via an automated sweeper scrubber.

Delivered through MSI General’s Single Source Responsibility™ DESIGNBUILD approach, the project unified design, construction, and complex technology coordination under one accountable team. This integrated delivery model allowed early alignment between building systems, automation requirements, and operational workflows—reducing risk, maintaining schedule certainty, and supporting informed decision-making throughout the project. By managing the full process from planning through execution, MSI General ensured the facility was delivered as a cohesive, future-ready solution that supports First Supply’s long-term operational goals.