While Ikea won't name its suppliers, this image reveals its fleet of Yale electrics

Home furnishings retailer Ikea is operating 32 battery-powered forklifts in a new 830,000 square foot (74,700sq m) distribution centre in Spanaway. Company policy prevents the multinational from identifying its suppliers, so details of the forklifts are not revealed.

Ikea uses the forklifts for moving goods to and from loading bays and automated storage racks. Some racks in the stacking system have shelves that reach as high as 100 feet (30.8m).

The centre employs 125, cost USD75 million and is expandable to more than 1 million square feet (90,000sq m). Ikea acquired the industrial land from the Port of Tacoma for USD8.67 million. Proximity to the Pacific Ocean-accessible port was a key element in determining the location.

The distribution centre serves Ikea's needs in four states and two Canadian provinces and will receive goods from about 1,300 suppliers in 54 countries. The site is Ikea's seventh distribution centre in North America.

Speakers at the 17 September dedication ceremony included Chris Gregoire, State of Washington governor; Don Johnson, Port of Tacoma commissioner; Terry Lee, Pierce County council chairman; and Keith Keller, Ikea North America distribution services president.

The Dutch non-profit Stichting Ingka Foundation owns Ingka Holding BV, which operates and franchises 285 Ikea stores in 36 countries.