Why This Matters to Distributors: Uline’s request indicates that even distributors with approved expansion projects are reassessing construction timing in response to economic conditions and existing network capacity. The company told city officials it intends to proceed with the project in the future but is delaying construction until additional capacity is needed.
Uline has received a one-year extension for a conditional use permit tied to a planned distribution center in Kenosha, Wisconsin, after company officials cited economic conditions and available capacity within the company’s existing warehouse network.
The request was considered during a May 7 meeting of the Kenosha Plan Commission. According to city records, the extension applies to the proposed WS Distribution Center, a 1,201,029-square-foot warehouse planned at 13333 38th St.
In a letter included in the commission’s meeting materials, Uline Director of Construction Brad Folkert wrote that construction would be postponed.
“Due to current economic conditions and available space within Uline’s existing network, construction of the WS Building will be postponed to 2027 or later to meet the company’s demands,” Folkert wrote.
Speaking before the commission, Folkert said economic conditions contributed to the company’s decision and noted that Uline had extended leases at facilities in Pleasant Prairie.
“There is some unsettlement in the economy right now,” Folkert told commissioners. He said the lease extensions had reduced the immediate need for additional warehouse capacity.
Folkert told the commission that Uline still intends to move forward with the project and does not plan to modify the previously approved development plans.
Following a public hearing, the plancCommission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the 12-month extension.
Distribution Strategy Group has reached out to Uline and the City of Kenosha for additional comment and will update this story if responses are received.
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