WARRENDALE, Pa., March 17, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- rue21, inc. (Nasdaq:RUE) today announced plans to double the size of its current 189,600 square foot Distribution Center located in Weirton, West Virginia. Development plans call for the construction of 180,000 square feet of additional storage space, additional receiving docks, and improved truck circulation areas. The plans also call for a 5,000 square-foot employee area which includes additional employee restrooms, locker rooms, and a new cafeteria with access to an outdoor seating area.
Keith McDonough, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer stated "The expanded warehouse storage space is an essential element in improving the continuous and efficient operation of our Distribution Center. The additional employee facilities will provide a superior environment for our most critical asset, our employees."
This expansion comes just 12 months after the completion of a successful Distribution Center upgrade, which included the implementation of a new pack-to-light system and control systems, as well as upgrades to the warehouse management system. The facility's packing system was designed to support over 1300 stores and the additional warehouse adds the necessary storage capacity.
"The recently completed Distribution Center upgrades, including additional packing capacity, new systems and performance metrics, coupled with this planned expansion, gives us the ability to support our current stores and gives us the flexibility for our planned future growth," said McDonough.
The proposed Distribution Center expansion is scheduled for warehouse occupancy this September with final completion slated for November 2011.
About rue21, Inc.
rue21 is a leading specialty apparel retailer offering exclusive branded merchandise and the newest trends at a great value. The Company currently operates 654 store locations in 44 states. Learn more at www.rue21.com.