Calgary picks up new $26M UPS distribution centre

UPS, the world's largest package delivery company, announced plans Tuesday to build a $26-million centre in Calgary in response to a big jump in business in the area.

The new 150,000-square-foot distribution centre will be built on Aero Drive N.E. at the Calgary International Airport, UPS Canada said in a news release.

Business for UPS in the Calgary area has risen by 60 per cent in the last five years, prompting the expansion.

"Calgary is clearly Alberta's premier international gateway for cargo today and in the future," said Mike Tierney, president of UPS Canada, adding that the facility will reduce the time customer shipments spend in transit.

Once completed in October 2009, the centre will employ 415 staff and house 157 trucks, according to UPS. The company's three separate distribution centres in the city will continue operating until the new one opens.

UPS is headquartered in Atlanta and serves more than 200 countries.