Walmart to Open New Alabama-Based Distribution Center
BENTONVILLE, AR - It’s official, Walmart’s sixth distribution center in the U.S. is in the works. As the retailer continues its trek for growth, reports of a massive Alabama-based distribution facility were confirmed with excitement from both the chain and the port.
The latest addition to the retailer’s distribution arm will be a $135 million investment, spanning 2.5-million-square-feet.
“As you know, there’s been a tremendous competition for the distribution center that Walmart is going to build here in Mobile,” said Public Affairs Director Glen Wilkins at the ceremony opening ceremony, according to the Alabama News Center. “I think we did a great job choosing Mobile. I think that was a fantastic idea.”
As we reported previously, Alabama approved tax incentives for Walmart to push forward last July, with hopes the facility might be in service by December of 2018.
The project is set to bring 550 jobs to the Port of Mobile, as the import distribution facility looks to service upwards of 800 stores.
“Walmart’s decision to locate an import distribution center in Mobile County is a clear signal that Alabama is serious about creating jobs for its citizens and expanding the potential of the Port of Mobile,” said Gov. Robert Bentley at the ceremony. “Walmart is making a substantial investment in Alabama, and we look forward to expanding our valuable partnership with the company through this project.”
The news source noted that the 4,000-acre seaport is one of the busiest deep-water ports in the U.S., handling more than 50 million tons of cargo a year on average.
“We are excited about how this facility will help us serve customers from Alabama to the Great Lakes, and the economic impact it will have through local job creation and future economic development in the Mobile area,” said Jeff Breazeale, VP of Direct Import Logistics. “We are grateful to the State of Alabama, Mobile County, the City of Mobile, and the Alabama State Port Authority for the support we have received throughout this process, and we look forward to a strong relationship with the community for years to come.”
These 550 job opportunities will offer an average of $35,000 a year, the retailer said, with some salaried workers earning upwards of $50,000. Walmart currently employs more than 38,000 in the state of Alabama.
