Iowa 80 Group celebrates Distribution Center opening

The Iowa80.com Distribution Center celebrated its grand opening on Tuesday, Feb. 27. This $20 million capital investment includes a state-of-the-art warehouse equipped with advanced technology and an additional 132,921 square feet of available space for lease. 

Dave Meier, Director of Real Estate for Iowa 80 Group shared insights into the project, shedding light on its economic impact and the opportunities it brings to the region. He pointed out the strategic importance of Walcott as the flagship location for Iowa 80 Group, serving as the central hub for stocking stores and weekly shipments to other locations. "Walcott has been very supportive of growth at our interchange, and we look forward to further expansions," he said. "We have land for more warehouses here on both the north and south sides of Interstate 80." He noted that leveraging Walcott's tax rebate program was helpful to the project. 

The significance of being located in the Quad Cities was also emphasized, with Meier noting the availability of a great local workforce and the area's overall appeal as a desirable place to live. "Being in the Quad Cities is a plus, as there is a great local workforce, and it is a great area to live. Since we are right on I-80 and equidistant from Des Moines and Chicago, we are in the perfect spot."

The Distribution Center's warehouse technology system includes two Vertical Lift Machines that are designed to store items in a compact footprint, enhance efficiency, save space and simplify the order-picking process. The deliberate decision to construct a larger building serves a strategic purpose as well. Meier explained, "We built the building larger on purpose, as most warehouses are in industrial parks far away from the truckstops that are needed to serve the driver and their truck. This will make it a better location for both the operator of the warehouse and the drivers and vehicles that serve them."

"Iowa 80 Group is always looking for talented employees, and we have many opportunities around the complex. I would encourage people to look at all we can offer in many career types."  Meier related that the family-owned business is also celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2024.