Lakeland-based Saddle Creek Logistics Services announced Thursday it plans to open a new distribution center in Las Vegas.

The “shared-space facility” will expand its logistics operations in the western United States for new and existing clients, a Saddle Creek press release said. The facility is set to open in August.

“We’re seeing a high level of interest in a Las Vegas DC. The business-friendly tax climate, strong labor pool and proximity to many major markets make it an ideal location for warehousing and distribution operations,” Rob Pericht, Saddle Creek's senior vice president for customer solutions and operations development, said in the release.

“It’s also advantageous for efficient and cost-effective transportation with easy access to most of the western U.S. within two days via ground service,” he said.

The Ruthvens: Third generation takes over as president of the 64-year-old warehousing company

Polk jobs report: Uptick in job creation but layoffs push unemployed higher

'Too close, too soon': Lakeland denies developer request to build self-storage facility

The facility is Saddle Creek’s sixth location in the western U.S. and enlarges the footprint of the third-party logistics provider to more than 30 million square feet nationwide, the release said.

The newly constructed building has 36-foot clear heights and 20 dock doors. The space can be built-out to suit specific client needs.

“Ecommerce growth is driving demand for strategically located warehousing and fulfillment facilities that help position inventory closer to the end customer,” Pericht said.

“We’re committed to supporting our clients by investing in the right real estate to help them grow and succeed in this dynamic market,” he said.

The new facility's location makes ground service an efficient and cost-effective shipping option. Air cargo can be used for expedited shipments via Saddle Creek's brokerage services and parcel-shipping solutions.

The new facility is located west of Interstate 15 in the Silver State Commerce Center at 4230 N. 5th St. in North Las Vegas.

Saddle Creek now has 52 locations across 18 states. West Coast operations include facilities in the Los Angeles area, San Diego and Modesto as well as Las Vegas. Through acquisitions, Saddle Creek first expanded out West in 2009.

The number of employees across the company's distribution network varies. According to Saddle Creek's senior marketing director, Tom Collins, "staffing will be dependent on the clients and solutions we put in place."

The 55-year-old Saddle Creek Logistics Services provides supply chain solutions with a variety of logistics services, including order fulfillment, warehousing and transportation for retailers, manufacturers and ecommerce companies, the release said.

Its clients include organizations in food and beverage, health and beauty, retail, consumer packaged goods, apparel and footwear and electronics, among others.

"We’ve added five new multi-client facilities in just the past 18 months," Collins said.

This article originally appeared on The Ledger: Lakeland's Saddle Creek continues western expansion with Las Vegas facility