PHOENIX – One of the biggest suppliers of natural and organic foods in North America said it will open a distribution center in Goodyear with nearly 300 jobs available before the end of October.

KeHe Distributors, a wholesaler to more than 30,000 stores and other retailers in the United States and beyond, said in Thursday’s announcement the expansion will allow for “faster, more efficient service to their western partners.”

The Illinois-based company’s newest center, its 16th, will take up a half-million square feet near Yuma and Litchfield roads in the West Valley and employ more than 270 in operations, sales, administration, merchandising, delivery drivers and more.

“KeHE is one of the top wholesale organic food, specialty, and fresh distributors in North America,” Mayor Georgia Lord said in a press release.

“KeHE has a solid reputation for community engagement and making a difference both locally and internationally through the KeHE Cares® Foundation. I want to welcome KeHE Distributors to our growing city, and I wish them continued success.”

Company executive Chris Sieburg said Goodyear was chosen for its prime location.

“This will allow us to better serve KeHE’s key retail partners, such as Sprouts Farmers Market and Albertson’s Safeway; bringing KeHE’s expansive natural, organic, specialty, and fresh product portfolio to the Arizona and Las Vegas markets.

“The addition of the new facility will allow us to further our extensive growth plans, while maintaining and enhancing the level of service our retailers expect and deserve,” he said.

A job fair is scheduled Oct. 13-14 at 10950 W. Northview Ave. in Glendale.

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