Amazon will build distribution center in Jacksonville
By Jerome R Stockfisch
Tampa Bay Times
Published: Jul 27, 2016

TAMPA - Online retailer Amazon.com continues its expansion into Florida, announcing Wednesday that it will build an 800,000-square-foot distribution center in Jacksonville that will employ more than 1,500 people full time.

The Jacksonville site joins centers in Lakeland and Ruskin, which have more than 3,000 employees combined.

"Becoming a member of the Jacksonville community is very exciting for us as we grow our presence in Florida," said Akash Chauhan, vice president of Amazon's North America operations. "We look forward to continue building relationships in the community to make Jacksonville home."

At the Jacksonville facility, like the Ruskin facility, Amazon employees will pick, pack and ship small items to customers such as books, electronics and consumer goods. The Lakeland center handles larger, heavier and odd-sized items.

"This is a huge win for our city and citizens," said Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry. "I am incredibly excited about the opportunities Amazon is bringing to our city, and specifically northwest Jacksonville, a community that will now serve as host to an international, state-of-the art fulfillment and distribution center. Their entry brings more than 1,500 new jobs, strengthens Jacksonville's position as a destination for international business, and contributes to increased economic development growth and improved quality of life."

Amazon spokeswoman DeAnn Baxter said the company has not announced a construction timeline.

Contact Jerome R. Stockfisch at jstockfisch@tampabay.com.