Bloomington-based Midwest Food Bank plans to relocate its office and distribution center at 1703 S Veterans Parkway, Bloomington to 2031 Warehouse Drive, Normal. The new location formerly housed the Bloomington-Normal Seating Company.
"The last five years has seen an increase of over 130% in the value of food distributed from Midwest Food Bank," reports David Kieser. "The new location will allow us to accept more food and increase the number of agencies we serve."
The Normal location has nearly 100,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space, more than triple the current 28,000 sq. ft. warehouse. There are five additional semi trailer loading docks and increased parking space for agencies and volunteers. The new address is easily accessible for semis, and is closer to the interstate than the current location. The additional square footage will eliminate the need for rented space. The facility will have space to add coolers for frozen and refrigerated items which will be especially helpful in handling the large amounts of fresh produce MFB has been receiving.
"The extra space will solve a number of issues that have risen," says Kieser. "There will be a drive-through area for distribution week that will increase productivity and safety."