Dive Brief:
- Burlington Stores opened a 2 million-square-foot automated, climate-controlled distribution center in Ellabell, Georgia, according to a June 17 press release emailed to Supply Chain Dive.
- The distribution center features more than 25 miles of conveyor and automation, including smarter sortation systems, workstations and custom software, per the release.
- “Burlington’s distribution network is automated and designed for flexibility, speed, and efficiency; however, this center is unique,” EVP and Chief Supply Chain Officer Greg Shultz told Supply Chain Dive in an email, noting that the center is designed specifically for the retailer’s off-price business.
Dive Insight:
The new distribution center is part of a larger network overhaul to boost productivity, efficiency and overall workflow as Burlington looks to have merchandise reach stores faster, according to the press release.
Burlington also plans to equip its upcoming distribution center in Buckeye, Arizona, with automation and technology. The facility also measures 2 million square feet and will feature advanced sorting systems and custom software. It’s set to be operational by fiscal year 2028, Shultz said.
“Our new distribution centers are designed for higher productivity and faster turnaround times,” Shultz told Supply Chain Dive.
The Georgia distribution center features “unique” technology specifically designed for Burlington’s off-price business, helping increase speed and throughput, Shultz said. He added that Burlington uses software and systems technology throughout the entire process, from when a truck enters the distribution center yard and merchandise is scanned at in-store receiving areas.
The new facility is the company’s first location in Georgia and is expected to create about 1,500 jobs and career opportunities, per the release. Burlington CFO Kristin Wolfe in 2024 shared plans to open a Southeast distribution center in 2026, noting that it would be twice the size of the retailer’s next-largest facility.
Burlington currently operates seven distribution centers, Shultz said, and has made some moves to expand it in recent years. In 2025, for instance, executives confirmed that the retailer negotiated the purchase of an automated distribution facility in California.
As Burlington looks to grow its business, it’s supply chain needs to keep pace, Shultz said. According to the release, the retailer plans to open about 115 new stores nationwide by the end of its current fiscal year.
“As Burlington continues to grow, so does its supply chain demands,” Shultz said. “Automation is an integral piece to our growth story.”
