APPLETON, WI (01/24/2025) – On January 16th, Consolidated Construction Company was awarded the prestigious 2024 Project of the Year by the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin for their innovative work on a pioneering retail project. The project, located in Minot, ND, also received the ABC Projects of Distinction Gold Award.
The facility, operated by Enerbase Cooperative Resources, is the Midwest’s first store to feature Amazon’s “Just Walk Out” technology, a revolutionary system that eliminates the need for traditional checkout counters. This store is part of the future of retail, with the nearest equivalent 12 hours away in Denver. Designed and built by Consolidated Construction, the store is equipped with 233 precision-placed cameras, a multi-payment entry system, modern restrooms, staff offices, spacious storage areas, and temperature-controlled coolers and freezers.
“What we’ve achieved in Minot is a testament to the future of retail. Our goal was to create a space that blends cutting-edge technology with exceptional customer service,” said the team at Consolidated Construction. "Instead of employees standing behind a checkout counter, Enerbase employees now focus on offering true customer service—smiling faces, windshield cleaning, tire pressure checks—enhancing the customer experience."
The Minot store’s innovative design and the seamless integration of new technology impressed a panel of 23 industry experts, who evaluated 43 projects based on criteria like safety, craftsmanship, execution, scheduling, overcoming challenges, and overall distinction. Despite fierce competition, the project stood out as a true industry leader.
“We know that our member companies do excellent work. The Projects of Distinction awards highlight the breadth of their skills and craftsmanship,” said Kelly Tourdot, president of Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin. “It is notable that safety also plays a key role in the awards rankings. Once again, merit shop companies have demonstrated an exceptional level of safety, while building incredible projects.”
The Projects of Distinction Awards are designed to celebrate the best construction projects completed by ABC Wisconsin’s members. The Gold Award winners are now eligible to compete for the ABC National Excellence in Construction Awards, an honor that further underscores the achievement of Consolidated Construction in transforming the retail experience.