Detwiler’s Launching Major Distribution Hub in Palmetto

Key Information

• Facility Size: Over 100,000 square feet
• Location: North Manatee County, Palmetto
• Purpose: Distribution hub for six grocery stores in Sarasota and Manatee counties
• Job Creation: Specific number of employees not disclosed; current staff totals about 800
• Construction Start: May 2024
• Ribbon-Cutting Date: September 29, 2025
• Expansion Plans: Potential for future store openings

Detwiler’s Farm Market is set to unveil a distribution facility exceeding 100,000 square feet in north Manatee County at the close of September.

This warehouse and distribution center in Palmetto aims to function as a central hub for the company’s six grocery stores located across Sarasota and Manatee counties, bolstering local supply chains and contributing to job creation. Although the exact number of employees at the 133,000-square-foot facility remains unspecified, Detwiler’s Farm Market currently employs around 800 individuals across its retail outlets and corporate offices.

The new distribution center will be located within the extensive 2-million-square-foot Florida International Tradeport industrial park developed by Benderson, running nearly a mile along I-75 near the junction with US 301 in north Manatee County.

Construction of this distribution center required over a year, with the family-owned grocery chain breaking ground on the project in May 2024. A private ribbon-cutting event is scheduled for September 29, featuring members of the Detwiler family, corporate staff, and the Benderson team.

“This facility signifies a substantial investment in our community,” remarked Sam Detwiler, President of Detwiler’s Farm Market, in a statement which did not disclose the project cost. “By consolidating our operations, we can enhance efficiency, create more job opportunities, and offer improved pricing to our customers. This initiative also positions us for growth and future store openings.”

The chain’s most recent grocery store was opened in December 2023 in Bradenton.

CEO Henry Detwiler, recognized as a Top Entrepreneur by Business Observer in 2025, indicated in a spring interview that the company aims to further expand its presence to the north, south, and east.

Henry Detwiler founded the grocery chain after working at an egg tent and produce stand in 2002, eventually opening the first Detwiler’s store on Palmer Boulevard in Sarasota in 2009. The company now boasts locations on the US 41 bypass in Venice; Clark Road in south Sarasota; Lockwood Ridge Road near University Parkway along the Manatee-Sarasota line; US 301 in Palmetto; and 53rd Avenue West in Bradenton.

“From our humble beginnings at a roadside tent to our present-day accomplishments, it’s remarkable to see how this community has embraced us,” stated Henry Detwiler. “This distribution center enables us to contribute back — by generating opportunities for local families and ensuring we provide fresh food at fair prices for years to come.”