Forward Air Invests $40 Million in Columbus Hub Expansion

John Sommers II for Transport Topics

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Forward Air Corp. is expanding the capacity of its national hub in Columbus, Ohio, by approximately 30%, the company announced July 27.

The Greeneville, Tenn.-based ground transportation and logistics firm’s $40 million investment is the latest step in a growth strategy that involves infrastructure investments as well as acquisitions of complementary businesses.

“Forward has been serving the Columbus market for the past 30 years, and this investment allows us to increase our capacity, grow our team and deliver world-class service as a fixture in the local economy and nationally for years to come,” CEO Tom Schmitt said in a statement. “We are thrilled to expand our home in Columbus.”

Schmitt

The Columbus facility, built in 1994, has served as the central hub for less-than-truckload operations. Forward Air said rapid growth in recent years has exceeded capacity at the facility. The company recently purchased 11 acres adjacent to the terminal for $9.5 million.

“Columbus is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States and home to our largest terminal — as well as 550 Forward employees,” Chief Operating Officer Chris Ruble said. “With this investment, we are making a commitment to grow with Columbus.”

Forward Air expects the investment project to continue into late 2022. The goal is to increase the facility by an additional 35 doors, expand its yard for improved driver parking and trailer storage, and create a campus environment with a dedicated national support center.

Forward Air ranks No. 29 on the Transport Topics Top 100 list of the largest for-hire carriers in North America, and No. 1 on the Air/Expedited sector list. — Transport Topics

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