A few weeks ago, I was genuinely saddened when the Flowers Discount Bakery store on North Zetterower Avenue in Statesboro closed. It was my "go to" place for all kinds of bakery products when I was feeding a large crowd.
      My disappointment was short lived as construction has begun on a new facility. According to Derst Baking Company president Paul Frankum, the 9,500 square foot distribution center and retail outlet will be completed by early spring.
      Located on 301 South near the entrance to the Gateway Industrial Park, the building will serve as a distribution point for Derst and Flowers baked products for a 50 mile radius.
      "We made the decision to build in our new location for a few reasons," Frankum said. "First, we wanted to have our retail store and warehouse facility in one, single location. Secondly, it is a great distribution point for us. Thirdly, there is a much larger population working in that area which will give great exposure to the retail outlet that is there."
      For those of you who aren't familiar with either company, Flowers Foods is a publicly traded company (NYSE: FLO) which purchased Savannah-based Derst Baking Company in 2006. Derst serves a tremendous area ranging from Charleston to Augusta and down to Hinesville. Its baking facilities are located in Savannah.
      In addition to Captain John Derst bread, Flowers top brands include Nature's Own, Whitewheat, Cobblestone Mill, Mrs. Freshley's, and Blue Bird. Regional and franchised brands include Sunbeam, Bunny, ButterKrust, Evangeline Maid, Mary Jane, Mary Jane & Friends, Aunt Hattie's and Holsum.
      Frankum said the cost of the new facility, including land acquisition, should be approximately $1.5 million.
      On a personal note. Last Tuesday evening, our oldest daughter was in a serious automobile accident in Waynesboro. She was transported to the trauma center at the Medical College of Georgia Hospital in Augusta and subsequently admitted to the hospital there. She is home now, and on the mend.
      My husband and I want to thank everyone for their prayers, calls, texts and emails. We will be forever grateful for the tremendous support and love that our family has received during the past several days.
      So, until next Tuesday, I bid you au revoir.
      Got a scoop for Jan? Call her at (912) 489-9463 or email her at jmoore@statesboroherald.com