Spartan Logistics Case Studies

Spartan Logistics Expands to Bowling Green, KY to Support Global Manufacturing Client

Background

Spartan Logistics, a third-party logistics provider headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, expanded its operations by launching a new distribution center in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This marked the company’s first location in Kentucky, increasing its warehouse and distribution space to 4 million square feet.

The Challenge

In mid-2022, one of the world’s largest manufacturers needed a dedicated warehousing and distribution solution near its Bowling Green production facility. The challenge was twofold:

1. Rapid Deployment – The challenge was to make a 300,000-square-foot warehouse fully operational within one month, including staffing it with personnel and equipping it for seamless operations.
2. Strategic Location & Logistics Support – The facility had to offer seamless transportation, including inventory management, goods handling, and a dedicated shuttle service to and from the manufacturing plant.

The Solution

Spartan Logistics leveraged its expertise in industrial real estate and third-party logistics to develop a comprehensive solution:

• Prime Location & Infrastructure: This rail-served facility is near major cities such as Nashville and Louisville. Just two miles from the customer’s plant and near two major highways, this location enables rapid distribution and easy transportation of goods.
• Optimized Distribution Capabilities: The facility features 300,000 sq. ft. of bulk storage with rail access, making it an ideal dedicated contract warehouse for an international paper supplier.
• Advanced 3PL Services: As with all Spartan Logistics locations, the Bowling Green facility offers a full suite of third-party logistics (3PL) services, including:
  • Integrated inventory management system
  • Simplified transport and shipping management
  • Spartan’s online portal for real-time warehouse operations monitoring
  • Inbound handling and outbound distribution services

Spartan’s swift execution included securing specialized material handling equipment, onboarding experienced staff, and coordinating with key vendor partners to meet the customer’s deadline.

Results & Impact

• Strategic Advantage: The Bowling Green warehouse location allows the customer to reach half of the U.S. population within a one-day drive time, ensuring fast and efficient order fulfillment.
• Customer Success: The facility streamlined supply chain operations, reducing transit time, and improving inventory efficiency.
• Job Creation: Spartan Logistics contributed to the local economy by hiring over 40 employees to support the operation.
• Long-Term Partnership: This warehouse marks the third facility Spartan operates for this key customer, reinforcing their strong and trusted relationship.

Conclusion

Spartan Logistics’ rapid response, strategic facility placement, and advanced 3PL services made the Bowling Green expansion a success. By combining location advantages, state-of-the-art technology, and experienced logistics management, Spartan continues to strengthen its position as a premier third-party logistics provider in the U.S.