DUBLIN, OH – Medtrade exhibitor Cardinal Health is planning a new flagship forward distribution center in Indianapolis, Ind.—designed to modernize its national network. The state-of-the-art forward distribution center will feature automation and the latest technology advancements in support of the segment’s distribution of more than 70,000 pharmaceutical and specialty deliveries daily across the United States.
“We’re continuing to make strategic investments in our core distribution network to drive service, enhance efficiency and meet the evolving needs of our customers with even greater reliability and responsiveness,” said Debbie Weitzman, CEO, Pharmaceutical & Specialty Solutions. “Expanding and modernizing our distribution footprint reinforces our ability to drive growth and support our teams.”
This 230,000-square-foot facility will feature an industry-first robotic storage and retrieval system, designed and implemented in partnership with Swisslog, a leading provider of warehouse automation, robotics, and software. The facility’s advanced automation technology provides real-time inventory visibility, intelligent order fulfillment, and coordinated management of material flow—from receiving to shipping—across state-of-the-art robotics, conveyance, and sorting systems.
“Automation remains a key component of our strategy, and this innovative facility demonstrates Cardinal Health’s commitment to operational excellence, safety, and the efficient distribution of the products and services that improve the lives of people each day,” said Jamie Barker, senior vice president, Pharmaceutical & Specialty Supply Chain Operations. “It marks the next major step in our multi-year strategy to drive productivity, improve customer service and enhance employee safety and well-being.”
The technology and automation enhancements work alongside Cardinal Health employees to deliver operational efficiencies and improve employee and customer experiences, while supporting fluctuations in volume and labor.
This is the second pharmaceutical distribution center the company has announced since 2024. The Indianapolis forward distribution center is expected to be fully operational by fall 2027 and will create more than 100 new jobs in Indiana, which continues to be a strategic transit hub for the company.
