Trader Joe’s is building a distribution and food assembly center outside of Franklin, Ky., which will bring more than 800 jobs to Simpson County. The 1 million square foot project is expected to have three buildings dedicated to the assembly and distribution of ready-made food items and scheduled to be in operation this fall.
“This would be what they’re calling their Mid-America Hub, it’ll be a distribution and an assembly food prep center. It’s about a $262 million project there,” Simpson County Judge Executive Mason Barnes told WBKO.
“When you start seeing this type of growth and an influx of people, it kind of affords your small local businesses a better opportunity and a chance to flourish,” said Barnes. “I mean, the more people we have to help bolster those businesses, I think that’s a positive for our community too.”
As Simpson County continues to grow through residential and industrial projects, Barnes says that the community is in store for more change. However, he says that while many in the community are averse to change, it can present more opportunities.