Stellantis to open Metro Detroit Megahub for Mopar parts distribution in Michigan in 2027

Stellantis is developing a Mopar service parts distribution centre (PDC) in Van Buren Township, Michigan, with an investment of $388m. The Metro Detroit Megahub, which is set to launch in 2027, will feature cutting-edge technology, according to the company, including AutoStore automated storage and retrieval system. Mopar is the genuine car parts, service and customer care division of the former Chrysler company, now owned by Stellantis.

“With the Metro Detroit Megahub, we’re building a faster, smarter and more reliable parts distribution network that puts their needs first,” said Darren Bradshaw, senior vice-president and head of Mopar North America. “This investment reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability and operational excellence, while also creating a modern, high-tech workplace for our employees.”

Stellantis explained that the AutoStore system uses compact robots that navigate tracks above a high-density grid of storage bins to retrieve parts and deliver them to workstations, where employees pack and process final shipments. Stellantis said the system improves order speed and accuracy, maximising storage efficiency and helping to accelerate delivery times for customers and dealers. 

The announcement of the Metro Detroit Megahub follows close on the heels of Stellantis opening a $64m Mopar PDC in New York state to enhance its service across the north-east region of the US. The facility in East Fishkill is also using the Autostore automated storage and retrieval system, as is the PDC in Brampton, Ontario, in Canada, which was the first Stellantis facility in North America to use the system.

Consolidation and contracts
Stellantis said that as part of its consolidation strategy it has recently sold its other Michigan-based Mopar PDCs in Center Line and Marysville. It has also sold its PDC in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The carmaker said that operations at these facilities will continue under a sale-leaseback agreement, providing essential support until the Metro Detroit Megahub and Warren Sherwood e-coat upfitting facilities are complete.

Staff from the from the Center Line, Warren, Warren Sherwood and Milwaukee PDC locations, will move to the Metro Detroit Megahub when it opens, employing 488 workers. The workforce from the Marysville location will transition to the Warren and Warren Sherwood PDC locations where they will operate until the full integration into the Megahub and the Warren Sherwood facility is complete.