At the opening of a new branch in Gonzales, La., Grainger announced its plan to expand and enhance its operations throughout the Gulf region.

The plan calls for the distributor to revamp its distribution network by opening four new facilities, relocating another and expanding and enhancing three existing facilities in the region.

With the expansion, Grainger will increase its local workforce by approximately 35% and the size of its distribution network in the area by about 80%. In addition, it will increase the amount of inventory by 56%.

Product categories stocked at facilities in the Gulf region include HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), material handling, plumbing, safety and cleaning supplies as well as hand and power tools.

The plan is part of Grainger's market expansion initiative, a multi-year program to enhance the company's presence in top metropolitan markets across the U.S. As part of the effort, changes are either underway or have been completed in 25 markets across the country, including New York/New Jersey/Connecticut, Seattle, Los Angeles, Denver, Kansas City, St. Louis, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Houston, Cincinnati/Dayton, Tampa, South Florida, Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Philadelphia.

Grainger plans to invest up to $60 million in 2008 to expand and enhance its operations across the country. This includes the investments made in the Gulf area.