ProLogis, a manager and developer of distribution facilities, and Browning Investments, Inc., the real estate developer, plan to develop a 380,000-square-foot distribution center for LaCrosse. To improve operating efficiencies, LaCrosse will relocate and consolidate its two existing distribution centers located in La Crosse, Wisconsin. LaCrosse will utilize the space as a national distribution center, serving customers primarily in the Midwest and along the East Coast.
“The new state-of-the art distribution center and location will enable us to better serve our customers and execute our long-term growth strategies,” said David P. Carlson, executive vice president and chief financial officer of LaCrosse Footwear, Inc. “Approximately 70 percent of LaCrosse's domestic customers can be reached within one day from Indianapolis.”
The new location in Indiana will allow LaCrosse to take advantage of economic incentives from both state and local governments. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation will provide up to $306,500 in tax credits and training grants based on planned job creation at the new location, and the Whitestown Town Council will provide a property tax abatement at the request of the Boone County Economic Development Corporation and the Indy Partnership.
The new facility will incorporate a number of sustainable design and construction techniques including extensive use of recycled and locally sourced construction materials and the installation of an energy-efficient fluorescent lighting system. This is LaCrosse's second lease with ProLogis. It currently operates its company headquarters and a 145,000-square-foot distribution facility in a ProLogis building at Southshore Corporate Park in Portland, Oregon.
“We are excited to extend the relationship we started with LaCrosse in Portland and continue it into Indianapolis,” said Doug Kiersey, ProLogis senior vice president and Midwest regional director. “The company is one of the world's most recognized brands of work and outdoor footwear and a valued customer. We look forward to serving their distribution needs at this new location.”
Park 267 in Whitestown is owned through a joint venture between ProLogis and Browning Investments, with Browning undertaking construction activities in the park. The distribution park is located on a 54-acre site near the intersection of Interstate 65 and State Route 267, with direct access to other national highway systems. Subaru occupies a second facility at the park, totaling more than 500,000 square feet.
“We welcome LaCrosse to Park 267 and to the Indianapolis region,” said John Hirschman, director of development for Browning. “This is a significant transaction for Browning, ProLogis, LaCrosse and central Indiana.”
