ST. CLOUD, MN Automotive Parts Headquarters (APH), a family- and employee-owned automotive parts distributor serving Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and Michigan, has relocated to a new location in St. Cloud, MN, in order to accommodate rapid store growth and company expansion.
The new corporate offices and distribution center occupies a 160,000-square-foot building located in St. Cloud. The facility provides 15,000 square-feet of office and training space, and 145,000 square-feet of warehouse space. The new location replaces what had been six different warehouses spread throughout St. Cloud. The six warehouses totaled 127,000-square-feet.
“We are excited about the growth Automotive Parts Headquarters has experienced over the last few years,” said Corey Bartlett, executive vice president. “Our new St. Cloud location lets us maintain our valuable employee base while reaching the next level.”
The new corporate offices are configured to accommodate both current space needs and future growth for staff and business operations. “The new office space gives our staff a better working environment equipped with conference rooms and technology not available at the old location,” said Bartlett.
The new distribution center is engineered to maximize picking efficiency and reduce forklift travel. The large facility features high-density storage racking, a single-level mezzanine and an automated roller conveyor with a fixed laser scanner. “The new distribution center provides a modern, comfortable and productive atmosphere,” said George Tersteeg, distribution manager.
APH and its 100 employees moved into the new building mid-March. Employees, sales representatives and family members moved product from the previous six warehouses into the new distribution center. Some 300 people worked 10-hour shifts around-the-clock for five consecutive days to complete the move.
APH celebrated its relocation by hosting an open house during the end of May at the new building. Nearly 400 neighbors, local businesses and family members enjoyed a free meal, guided tours, beer sampling and door prizes. The event also included a food drive for the local food shelf.
"It’s a big building, but Automotive Parts Headquarters’ growth is filling it quickly,” said Bartlett.