The Premier, Lara Giddings, today officially opened the new $84 million distribution centre for Statewide Independent Wholesalers (SIW) near Launceston Airport.

Ms Giddings said the major investment by SIW has provided a much-needed boost to the Northern Tasmanian economy, employing 170 local contractors during construction.

Since 1982 SIW has operated the distribution centre for Woolworths in partnership with the members of TIR, which employ 3000 people throughout the state.

"This distribution centre reinforces the strong relationship between Tasmanian Independent Retailers and Woolworths and secures the future employment of up to 250 employees in the Northern region," Ms Giddings said.

"It is a sign of confidence in our retail sector and an example of the $4.5 billion worth of private investment that is helping to drive Tasmania's economic recovery.

"The Government is committed to stimulating further growth in Tasmania's economy and a key goal of our Economic Development Plan is to maximise growth and jobs, particularly in regional areas."

The new wholesale distribution centre will replace three existing distribution centres in Hobart, Devonport and Launceston.  

It will service over 230 stores comprising 29 Woolworths supermarkets, 25 BWS outlets, 80 IGA supermarkets and 100 other independent stores statewide.

The centre is designed to operate 24 hours-a-day, seven days a week and will also include parking for 320 cars, plus a separate 40-space truck car park.

"The state-of-the-art facility uses modern warehousing technology and has the capacity for future expansion to satisfy the needs of its customers for many years to come," Ms Giddings said.