FORD TO ADD PARTS DISTRIBUTION CENTERS
Ford Motor Co. will increase its parts distribution network to speed up deliveries to dealers over the next three years.
Ford said it will increase the number of parts distribution centers from 10 to 21, which will allow dealers to order and receive parts on a daily, rather than weekly, basis. Dealers will also be able to place orders Saturdays for Monday deliveries.
The new facilities will be divided into three classes: low-volume/low -cube, high-cube, and high-velocity centers. Low-volume will handle distribution of small, low volume parts. High-cube centers will distribute larger products. High velocity centers will handle high volume parts in 19 locations.
The first distribution center will open in Memphis, Tenn. In January. The next 10 will open through 2004 in newly constructed facilities and existed buildings that Ford leases.