Memphis is more than just a city known for its rich musical heritage and cultural landmarks— it’s a powerhouse in the world of logistics and distribution. Strategically located along the Mississippi River and home to the world’s second-busiest cargo airport, Memphis has earned its title as “America’s Distribution Hub.” It is an ideal spot for businesses seeking to optimize their supply chain operations.

At the heart of this thriving logistics ecosystem is Patterson Warehouses, a third-party logistics company with deep-rooted experience and expertise. As the second oldest family-owned business operating in the Memphis area, Patterson specializes in third-party warehousing and distribution services, boasting a longer history in these services than any other 3PL in the Southeast.

“Our strategic central U.S. location, along with our long-standing legacy of service, allows us to attract and serve a diverse range of customers. We pride ourselves on our flexibility to tailor solutions to accommodate distinct client needs,” says Nathan Bell, VP of Sales at Patterson.

A Legacy of Service: Patterson’s Rich History

Patterson’s journey in the logistics industry began with a strong focus on trucking and warehousing, with one of its early and most significant clients being Kimberly-Clark. Patterson handled a significant portion of KimberlyClark’s transportation needs in Memphis and helped them find warehouse space as they expanded. This partnership marked the beginning of Patterson’s growth in the industry. The company’s strong service levels resulted in numerous referrals, enabling it to expand across various locations in Memphis before consolidating operations to a single site for greater efficiency.

Over the years, Patterson Warehouses has built long-term relationships with clients that extend to 10-15 years. The company supports clients through multiple growth stages, from shipping to retail stores to handling internet-based business. Its large management team, with extensive industry knowledge, allows Patterson to meet customer demands promptly and efficiently.

Customer-Centric Services to Fit Every Need

Patterson collaborates with clients to work with freight forwarders and ensure that their products are transported efficiently. A majority of the products come through the port of California and are then brought to Memphis via rail before being stored in its warehouse. The company handles full inventory management and maintains strong partnerships with major retail stores like Walmart, Target, Lowe’s, and Home Depot for distribution purposes. These established relationships help customers launch new products or get existing products to retail stores within a few weeks.

Patterson specializes in lot number and serial number tracking, which is crucial for many clients’ products. It offers comprehensive inventory and cycle count management and handles full pallet, full case, inner pack, and individual item picking and shipping. The services also include e-commerce manifesting and shipping, cross-docking operations, and store display assembly that align with its kitting and light assembly capabilities.

Innovative Technology to Drive Efficiency and Accuracy

Patterson understands the critical role that technology plays in any supply chain operation. It uses a suite of WMS software designed specifically for multi-client, multi-warehouse operations, providing the flexibility and scalability to fine-tune the processes for each individual customer. Software modules and system functionality are activated as needed to ensure every account operates as accurately and efficiently as possible. The reliability of all data and systems is paramount at Patterson, and the company takes great strides in incorporating redundant platforms and real-time backups in all systems and processes.
Expansive Facilities for Scalable Operations

Patterson currently operates 2.7 million square feet of food-grade warehouse space in the Memphis market across two operational campuses—one inside the Airport Aerotropolis Zone in Memphis and another site just across the state line in North Mississippi. All operational buildings function as separate entities with dedicated operational and administrative staff. This model provides the space and management control needed for customers and allows flexibility in staffing to meet the demands of the busiest receiving and shipping days.

Fueling Client Growth and Innovation

Patterson has a long history of success with customers, both past and present. Each customer trusts the company to manage their inventory, ensuring all products are received, picked, and shipped according to compliance standards and requirements. Recently, it assisted a startup in the residential lighting industry that was struggling with warehousing operations, labor management, and establishing connections with retailers. They started with 15,000 square feet of inventory and expanded to 60,000 square feet, thanks to Patterson’s efficient logistics management. This support allowed the startup to focus on product innovation and business growth.

The Power of Experience: A Seasoned Team

Patterson consistently delivers exceptional service due to the long tenure of its employees, who bring a wealth of industry knowledge with them. The management team is led by a group of highly seasoned experts with more than 150 years of third-party logistics experience and nearly three decades of working together at Patterson. This team oversees 125 permanent employees and approximately 200 flex staff daily, and can cost-effectively ramp up any workgroup to support the unexpected demands of customers both large and small.

Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Service and Growth

Patterson’s aim is to carry forward its legacy of outstanding service and ensure the business thrives in the upcoming years. The company’s dedication to remain a Memphis-based provider and foster long-standing relationships remains strong. The financial strength, growth, and longevity of the company are proof that oldfashioned service is still the cornerstone of any business, even in the high-tech world in which we operate today. Patterson Warehouses remains dedicated to upholding its legacy of excellence and is well-positioned to carry forward its tradition of outstanding service for decades to come.