Columbia's Rivergate Distribution Center first opened in the spring of 1994 with 150,000 sf of space. In just over six years, the facility has more than quintupled in size to accommodate the company's rapid growth. The current expansion is being built on a portion of 20 acres the company acquired for $3.3 million in early 1998. The company had a 300,000 sf distribution center in Rivergate at the time, and was preparing to expand to its current size.

Founded in 1938 in Portland, Columbia designs, manufactures, markets and distributes active outdoor apparel and footwear. It is one of the largest outerwear manufacturers in the world and the leading seller of skiwear in the United States. For the nine months ended Sept. 30, net income increased 89% to $45.1 million. Revenues rose 30% to $452.9 million. The company says the results reflect an increase in spring sportswear sales, along with operating efficiencies.

Columbia's share price closed Tuesday at $49.50, off 50 cents from Monday's close and $5.75 below its 52-week high of $55.25 a share, achieved last Wednesday. The company's 52-week low of $17 came on Jan. 12, 2000.