Ghirardelli to open Lathrop distribution center

Ghirardelli to open Lathrop distribution center San Leandro-based Ghirardelli Chocolate Co. is set to open a new 286,000-square-foot packaging and distribution center in Lathrop.
   The firm, which has eight California stores and five others across the nation, plans to have the new facility up and running by early next year.
   In addition to housing the distribution center, the 295,000-square-foot building will house a 1,400-square-foot retail store and a 7,700-square-foot office complex.
   The retail store will sell Ghirardelli products including ice cream, and will be modeled after the firm's famous Ghirardelli Square location in San Francisco.
   The 155-year-old confection firm will offer tours of the facility when it is completed, although candy will still be made at the firm's San Leandro production facility.