AmerisourceBergen strengthens distribution network, IT capabilities with new distribution centers

VALLEY FORGE, Pa. — AmerisourceBergen has announced plans to build three new distribution centers in Olive Branch, Miss., Shakopee, Minn. and Newburgh, N.Y. as part of an overall plan to continuously improve the wholesaler’s pharmaceutical supply chain delivery ability. 

 

“We want to continue to get better at providing that customer experience every single day,” Bob Mauch, EVP and president AmerisourceBergen Drug, told Drug Store News. "One of the things that we’re really focused on here ... is a patient-minded supply chain. We’re making these investments that make us even better at delivering that product every day on time to the right place.”

 

AmerisourceBergen is currently in the design stages of the three DCs, and Mauch said that by the time they’re completed, they will feature state-of-the-art automation and warehouse management systems. The new DCs will also feature advanced communication technologies.

 

“We’re investing in technology to be in even better contact with our customers in terms of deliveries and delivery times,” he said. 

 

AmerisourceBergen has committed more than $1 billion over the last ten years into the distribution network and IT systems that handles nearly 35% of all of the pharmaceuticals sold and distributed throughout the country. 

 

“We grow when our customers grow, so it’s no surprise that our goal is to help successfully execute the patient-focused strategies of the manufacturers, providers, pharmacists and retailers who we support,” Mauch said. “Enhancements to our distribution network combined with AmerisourceBergen’s unsurpassed knowledge and reach positions us to increase efficiency and drive innovation in pharmaceutical distribution and the delivery of healthcare.” 

 

Construction on the new facilities is expected to start in the summer of 2015 and will take from 18-24 months to complete.