Wal-Mart Distribution Center opens for business

By:Les Blankenhorn

The Schuylkill County Wal-Mart Distribution Center celebrated its grand opening Wednesday. The 1-Million Square Foot, $70-Million Dollar facility is located in the High Ridge Business Park. Assistant Manager Phillip McIlrath said the facility recently began receiving product, and shipments to Wal-Mart stores starts next month. McIlrath said Wal-Mart received over 8,000 applications for employment at the facility where the starting wage is $13.00 per hour.
State Senator Jim Rhoades said the Distribution Center will be an asset to the County and the enthusiasm of the employees is evident by their response during the grand opening. During the ceremony, Wal-Mart handed out $30,000 in community grants to school districts and community organizations in the county. The new Distribution Center is operating on only one shift at the present time but a company spokesman said by next spring the facility will be a 24-7 operation. When fully stocked, the facility will contain about $76-Million Dollars worth of inventory.

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