A NEW distribution centre for Australian Pharmaceutical Industries (API) will be built by Walker Corporation at the CITISWICH Industrial Estate in the Ipswich suburb of Bundamba this year.

Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale said API and Walker Corporation signed a lease for the 19,000m² facility in late December.

“Ipswich is fortunate to have 43% of available industrial land in south east Queensland. This new distribution centre is another vote of confidence in the future of the western corridor and will help buffer our city from any economic downturn.

“Once operational the new centre will employ 180 people and service 720 pharmacies in Queensland and some of northern NSW.”

Construction of the facility was expected to start immediately once gaining approval from council. The building should be completed by November 2009 and the distribution centre in full operation by December 2009.

API currently operates a distribution centre in Richlands, however owing to API’s continuing growth the company found it necessary to find a new home.

“Ipswich is very happy to welcome API’s investment and vote of confidence in our city by establishing their new home at CITISWICH,” Cr Pisasale said.

API’s Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Stephen Roche said that the company was excited about the opportunities presented with a new site within the Ipswich City Council area and was pleased to be working with the Walker Corporation in developing this facility.

“API is one of Australia’s leading health and beauty companies, and the new distribution centre at the CITISWICH Industrial Estate will enable us to meet the growing demand for our services,” he said.

“This site is an ideal location for us to improve our efficiency and service to our rapidly growing Priceline retail brand and to our community pharmacy customers in Queensland.”

Approximately 160 people will be employed in the construction of the new distribution centre.

“API has confidence in our future prospects and given the current economic climate we are pleased that this outlook will provide employment opportunities for the local building industry,” Mr Roche said.

Executive Chairman, Walker Corporation, Lang Walker said CITISWICH Industrial Estate has provided API with a cost-effective, well-connected base to grow their business, and the company is excited to have this major tenant on board.

“Smart businesses like API are recognising that locating their business in the Western Corridor means they will directly benefit from massive transport and services infrastructure investment by government,” Mr Walker said.

“The rapid economic development of the Ipswich area means that estates such as CITISWICH become the logical move for businesses wanting to capitalise on the Western Corridor’s growth opportunities,” he said.

XAct Solutions is project managing the development and is working in partnership with API to deliver a national supply chain improvement program, of which the distribution centre at CITISWICH Industrial Estate is a significant piece of infrastructure.

Founded in 1910, API owns the Priceline brand and is one of Australia’s leading pharmaceutical distributors holding relationships with more than 4,000 independent pharmacies. API’s services include wholesale product delivery, retail services, marketing programs and business advisory services.

CITISWICH Industrial Estate is Walker Corporation’s largest project currently underway, valued at over $1 billion. API join The Reject Shop, Capral Aluminium, Hume Masterpanel and Australian Hardboards at the new estate.