Hallmark Outsources Operation of New DCs

New Breed Logistics, Inc.(High Point, N.C.), signed a 5-year contract with

Hallmark Cards (Kansas City, Mo.) to operate two new retail distribution centers in Clayton, N.C., and St. Joseph, Mo. The facilities total more than 800,000 square feet and will employ more than 200 people.

Under the contract, New Breed will provide warehousing and distribution services, which includes receiving, put-away, inventory control, picking, packing, and same-day shipping to Hallmark's network of stores and mass retailers. Products handled will include greeting cards, gifts, party goods, dealer service kits, and promotional items. Hallmark spent more than a year conducting an in-depth analysis of dozens of third party logistics providers before selecting New Breed.

"We are pleased to be working with New Breed Logistics in establishing two new warehouse and distribution sites," said Pete Burney, Hallmark operations v.p. logistics solutions. "New Breed presented us with the ideal solution for these new sites, complementing our existing operations and providing added flexibility to Hallmark's overall supply chain."

"This marks the first time that Hallmark has elected to outsource this critical component of their supply chain," added Joe Hauck, New Breed's director of business development. "The selection of New Breed as a strategic partner exemplifies our ability to meet the demanding requirements of the consumer products and retail distribution industry."