A courier company that expanded into the Kootenays last year is growing again and putting down roots in Castlegar.
Alopex Couriers is in the process of building a new package handling facility and office in Castlegar.
If you have noticed the white vans with black logos multiplying around the Kootenays, it’s because the parcel delivery company has expanded its service area and gained delivery contracts for the region including one with UPS.
The family-owned company began in Powell River in 2011 and now employs more than 75 people. They also have contracts in Kamloops and Cranbrook and the rural communities surrounding them.
The new building will be located at 4690 14th Ave., near the city’s civic works yard. Alopex has been sharing a space with Overland West Transport.
According to Alopex supervisor Mike Holt, the 10,000 square foot (929 square meter) building will feature a world-class warehouse design and a high-efficiency conveyor belt system.
“It will allow team members to efficiently process each parcel in a safe and secure environment away from the elements,” explained Holt.
The company has plans to hire more employees as the peak delivery season approaches and has long-term plans of elevating those jobs into careers including part-time and full-time management roles.
“We want to break through the normal expectations of a courier and include more personal interactions,” said Holt, adding that more personal interactions means more people working.
The Castlegar location has the potential of becoming a hub for the company in the future.
Alopex plans to have the building operational by January 2020.
