Lead photo: First Supply staff seen in the company’s newly opened distribution center in West Salem, WI. (First Supply photo)

As it celebrates its 128th anniversary, plumbing, HVACR, PVF and industrial supplies distributor First Supply opened the doors to its newly completed distribution center in West Salem, WI.

After two years of design, construction, systems implementation and planning, the facility went live on May 20, marking a major milestone in the company’s ongoing investment in technology, infrastructure and people, according to company officials.

“This week embodies our vision — to distribute partnership and innovation in our communities for generations,” First Supply President and CEO Katie Poehling Seymour told MDM. “We nod to our past while leaping boldly into our future.”

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The 310,000-square-foot facility represents a strategic investment in First Supply’s long-term growth and operational efficiency. Its layout and systems were designed to support speed, accuracy and flexibility — while scaling alongside customer and business needs. The company detailed that key technologies include a new Warehouse Management System (by Infor WMS), Transportation Management System (BlueRock TMS), Cubiscan dimensioning and Exotec’s high-density automation.

“To be the best, you have to surround yourself with the best. And that’s exactly what we’ve done at First Supply,” First Supply’s Director of Operations Tyler Gotto said. His team played a critical role in coordinating the complex rollout and ensuring readiness across systems and processes.

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Company officials added: “This milestone represents the collective effort of hundreds of team members, cross-functional leaders, and external partners who contributed their expertise and commitment to bringing the vision to life. While the technology sets a new operational benchmark for the company, leadership emphasizes that this milestone reflects a broader commitment to investing in its people, customers, and the future.”