Xpedx, a marketer and distributor of printing papers and graphics supplies and equipment, announced that it will more than double its presence in Connecticut with construction of a full-service distribution/logistics center and new company offices in Middletown, Conn. Occupancy is set for later this year.

The 85,000 square foot, Class A facility just south of Hartford will house new sales, customer service and warehouse employees, in addition to the company’s existing Connecticut work force.

“This is another important step in our customer and corporate strategy for the greater New England region,” said Michael Feenan, vice president of the New England Group for xpedx.

The Loveland, Ohio,-based xpedx is also a major distributor of packaging supplies and equipment and facilities supplies and equipment.

The new xpedx distribution center (DC) is more than double the company’s current 35,000 square foot warehouse in West Haven, Conn., which will be sold following the move. Middletown is in the geographic center of Connecticut, enabling quick distribution to all points statewide.

“This is a major commitment to giving customers the products, services and quick deliveries they need today,” said Greg Bowen, general manager of xpedx’s West Haven Division. “The new Middletown facility and larger staff will enable us to have deeper inventories across more product lines, a better location and greater operating efficiencies.”

Bowen, a veteran xpedx executive who will run the new Middletown operations, said the facility will represent a significant investment in xpedx customers, employees and suppliers, as well as the central Connecticut economy and New England region.

Bowen said xpedx is working closely with city of Middletown officials on the new facility.

xpedx last year relocated and expanded its distribution center in Portland, Maine, to better serve customers in that state. Feenan said the xpedx supply chain to customers across New England will continue to be strengthened.

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