In the heart of North Texas, a portion of a state-of-the-art cold storage facility developed by Barber Partners was transformed into Hungryroot’s largest distribution center—an advanced hub designed to support operations across the West, South, and Midwest regions.
More than a typical tenant improvement, this project reflects the value of working with a developer committed to flexibility, partnership, and delivering spaces that evolve alongside tenant needs.
The project encompassed roughly one-third of the building, delivering a highly customized, full-service distribution center tailored to Hungryroot’s operations. The space features demising insulated metal panel (IMP) walls separating freezer and cooler environments, robotic racking systems, ambient storage with integrated office areas, a custom packaging station, and a cold dock equipped with conveyors.
From freezer retrieval through automated handling and packing to final shipment, every element of the facility was designed for seamless workflow and operational efficiency. Today, the facility serves as Hungryroot’s largest distribution hub and a critical component of its nationwide network.
A defining aspect of the project was the ability to adapt quickly to evolving tenant needs. As Hungryroot refined its operational requirements, the Alston Construction project team—working closely with Barber Partners—seamlessly integrated significant scope enhancements to support long-term growth and performance.
In parallel, the team worked collaboratively to align building systems and infrastructure with the specialized requirements of a high-volume, automated distribution environment. Alston Construction’s hands-on approach and commitment to solutions ensured that adjustments were handled efficiently, keeping the project moving forward without disruption.
The success of the Hungryroot facility was driven by strong collaboration between Barber Partners, Hungryroot, Alston Construction, the design team, and key trade partners.
Coordinating complex elements such as electrical distribution, conveyor systems, and robotic layouts required real-time communication and rapid decision-making. This integrated approach allowed the team to respond to changes quickly, refine designs on the fly, and maintain momentum throughout the build.
The result was a highly coordinated effort where challenges were addressed proactively and solutions were implemented without delay—an experience that reflects Alston Construction’s commitment to success.
Through strategic planning, early procurement of long-lead materials, and a solutions-oriented mindset, the project was delivered nearly a month ahead of schedule.
Despite evolving requirements and the complexities of integrating advanced automation into an existing space, the team successfully delivered a fully operational facility ready to support Hungryroot’s continued expansion.
The Hungryroot distribution center demonstrates what’s possible when a developer prioritizes flexibility, collaboration, and tenant outcomes. The facility not only meets current operational demands but is positioned to scale alongside Hungryroot’s future growth.
One of the most dynamic aspects of Project Archer was the constant evolution of the end-user’s MHE layout. Alston’s VDC team used BIM models to integrate structural, mechanical, electrical, and MHE components, allowing for real-time clash detection and constructability reviews. As new MHE drawings were issued—every three to four weeks—Alston was able to proactively adapt, avoiding costly field conflicts and keeping progress steady.
