Litchfield-based Kenneth Wayne Sheely has bought the 35,300-sf North Valley distribution center for the Arizona Republic, which has a daily circulation of more than 300,000. The built-to-suit center at 18808 N. 32nd St. had been built for the newspaper just over five years ago. The Cavness Family Trust, a Phoenix-based trust and the site's developer, is the seller. The Gannett Co. newspaper will continue to lease the building and operate it as its main distribution plant.

Last year, the paper's Northwest Valley distribution center also had sold for $3.5 million to Cory Properties, based in San Diego. The 35,300-sf industrial building is at 21615 N. 7th Ave. The Republic also continues to occupy the building.

In the most recent sale, the Phoenix office of CB Richard Ellis, with brokers Steve Fernandez and Jenifer Davis, have represented the seller. DevMan Co.'s Phoenix office has acted on the buyer's behalf.