Jo-Ann Stores Inc. 
West Coast Distribution Center 
Visalia, CA

  
Haskell was selected to design and build a west coast distribution center for Jo-Ann Stores Inc., a leading national fabric and craft retailer.  The new fully automated 630,000 s.f. project was delivered on a fast-track schedule, designed and built in only six months.

The state-of-the-art distribution center is highly automated using the latest in multi-level pick module, conveyor and sortation systems. An additional 49,888 s.f. of warehouse space provides structural mezzanines to support the extensive network of automated conveyors, sorters and diverters.  The facility utilizes specialized computer-control and bar-coding technology to efficiently package orders and distribute sewing, craft and decorating products to more than 300 Jo-Ann stores west of the Mississippi River.

Load-bearing, tilt-up wall construction and conventional steel framing were chosen for cost- and time-efficiency. The warehouse area utilizes the latest ESFR sprinkler technology to maximize the building's clear-storage height of 35 feet. The use of a clearstory design between the warehouse racked storage and dock areas provides extensive natural lighting, creating an energy-efficient building and more desirable working environment.