United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) has opened a new distribution center in Sarasota, Florida, making a major investment in its national supply chain and automation strategy.
The 1 million-square-foot Sarasota North facility replaces UNFI’s previous Sarasota operation and employs more than 400 associates. The site is designed to improve efficiency, order accuracy, and service for retailers while also providing a modern work environment for employees.
Sarasota North is the first UNFI facility to deploy KNAPP’s AI-enabled pick-it-easy robot and the second to implement KNAPP’s goods-to-person automation system. These technologies are intended to reduce manual tasks, streamline order fulfillment, and support more precise inventory management. “By aligning KNAPP’s automation expertise with UNFI’s vision for Sarasota North, we’ve created a solution that not only strengthens operational performance but also empowers warehouse teams and makes a real difference for customers,” said Jusuf Buzimkic, chief sales officer at KNAPP.
UNFI executives said the investment reflects a long-term focus on building a stronger and more resilient distribution network. “Opening Sarasota North is a significant investment as we continue to optimize our distribution network for the future,” said Jeff Sault, president of distribution at UNFI. “By combining advanced automation with a strong focus on the associate experience, we’re not only improving how we serve customers and suppliers—we’re creating a better place to work and a stronger foundation for long-term growth.”
The facility incorporates several employee-focused features, including a gym, recreation spaces, upgraded break areas with natural light, and a driver’s lounge. UNFI has also emphasized career development opportunities, with training and skill-building programs tied to the advanced systems in use.
Community engagement is another aspect of the Sarasota North operation. Associates will continue volunteer efforts and partnerships with local organizations such as All Faiths Food Bank Pantry and Mothers Helping Mothers.
The Sarasota North opening is part of a broader UNFI distribution strategy that includes recent expansions in Manchester, Pennsylvania; Centralia, Washington; and Carlisle, Pennsylvania. In Sarasota and Manchester alone, the company has added about 400,000 square feet of incremental space. Across its network, UNFI is investing in automation to improve service reliability and reduce operating costs, positioning itself to better support suppliers and retail partners.
With Sarasota North, UNFI is betting that combining large-scale capacity with advanced robotics and a focus on workforce support will help the company strengthen its role as a key national distributor in an increasingly competitive grocery supply chain.
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