Governor Rick Scott has announced Publix Super Markets plans to create a one-million-square-foot distribution center in Orlando with a $188.5 million capital investment. Plans also call for staffing 156 new jobs during the center’s first three years of operation.
“It is always good news for Florida when a company expands and increases its investment here,” said Governor Rick Scott. “Publix has a well-known history as one of Florida’s leading corporate citizens and contributors to our economic growth.”
Publix is working to make the new refrigerated distribution center operational by fourth quarter 2014, according to Richard Schuler, Publix’s vice president of distribution.
“In order to maintain our service levels to our stores and our service commitment to our customers, we needed to plan for future growth with an addition of a refrigerated distribution center,” Schuler said. “Orlando was the best choice given inbound and outbound deliveries and the proximity to major roadways.”
Partners in this corporate expansion project were the State of Florida; Enterprise Florida Inc., the state’s principal economic development organization; the City of Orlando; and the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission.
“The Publix Distribution Center will create quality jobs for residents and infuse a significant amount of capital in our city,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “The company’s decision to expand in our community is a true testament to the strong economy and business friendly environment that exists in the City of Orlando.”
“A project of this magnitude is quite rare, especially in times like these,” said Rick L. Weddle, president and CEO of the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC). “We are pleased that Publix Super Markets chose Central Florida for this new distribution center.”
Publix has received approval from the state and City of Orlando for an incentive package totaling about $3.8 million. It includes:
• A Brownfield Redevelopment Bonus tax refund, which is performance-based, requiring the company to fulfill staffing and other contractual objectives before receiving tax rebates.
• An Economic Development Transportation Fund (Road Fund) grant, which is awarded to a local government on behalf of a business for public transportation improvements.
Publix also is eligible for the following workforce development benefits the state provides:
• Quick Response Training – an employer-driven training program that provides current Florida businesses with training needed for an expansion. A state educational facility (e.g., community college, technical center, school district or university) is available to assist with application and program development or delivery.
• Incumbent Working Training – provides training to currently employed workers in Florida companies to maintain a competitive workforce and retain the business in-state.
Source: Office of Florida Governor Rick Scott
