Canadian Tire plans Montreal-area distribution center

Toronto-based Canadian Tire, the DIY and automotive retailer, plans a new 1.5 million-square-foot distribution center in the Montreal area.

The center, to be built in Coteau-du-Lac, Quebec, will come into operation in 2009, according to the company. In a statement, Canadian Tire said the move is part of a growth and expansion planned for eastern Canada.

The opening of the new facility will be preceded by testing of new information technology and “state-of-the-art” material handling systems this year. When completed, the DC will process goods for stores in Ontario, Quebec and Canadian Maritime locations.

Canadian Tire is contracting with Genco Distribution System, a third-party logistics provider with 125 locations in North America, for the new distribution center.

"Canadian Tire's long-standing relationship with Genco started with the operation of our returns facility and expanded to include our Calgary distribution center," explained Patrick Sinnott, senior vp-supply chain for Canadian Tire.

Canadian Tire operates more than 473 stores across Canada, as well as other locations under the names PartSource, Canadian Tire Petroleum and Mark’s Work Wearhouse.