Governor Glenn Youngkin announced Amazon’s expansion in Hampton Roads, specifically in Virginia Beach, where the company plans to establish a state-of-the-art robotics fulfillment center and delivery station. This is set to create over 1,000 full-time jobs. The decision to expand in this region is due to strategic advantages like proximity to The Port of Virginia and a robust workforce. Virginia Beach will host Amazon’s 14th fulfillment and sortation center in the state, further solidifying the company’s presence since its initial operations in 2006. The expansion is not just about job creation; it also signifies the region’s surge in innovation and economic growth. Amazon’s dedication to Hampton Roads marks a new milestone in their commitment to the region’s development.
Amazon’s Expansion in Virginia Beach
By Tim Ryan
Amazon’s Investment
In a significant move for the Hampton Roads region, Governor Glenn Youngkin announced Amazon’s plans to establish a state-of-the-art robotics fulfillment center and delivery station in Virginia Beach. This expansion is set to generate over 1,000 full-time jobs, with the delivery station launching in 2024 and the robotics center in 2025.
Virginia Beach’s Strategic Advantages
Amazon’s decision to further invest in Virginia Beach is a testament to the region’s strategic advantages, including proximity to The Port of Virginia and a robust workforce. City Mayor Bobby Dyer expressed excitement over this partnership, emphasizing Virginia Beach’s ideal location for Amazon’s operations.
Amazon’s Presence in Virginia
This isn’t Amazon’s first venture in the Commonwealth. Since initiating its Virginia operations in 2006, the company has consistently expanded its presence. The Virginia Beach facilities will be Amazon’s 14th fulfillment and sortation center in the state. Beyond fulfillment centers, Amazon boasts of 15 Whole Foods Markets, 5 Amazon Fresh stores, and three Prime Now Hubs in locales like Virginia Beach, Richmond, and Springfield.
Impact on Jobs and Economic Growth
The 650,000-square-foot robotics center will focus on processing small items like books, electronics, and toys. Since 2010, Amazon’s investment in Virginia has surpassed $109 billion, creating over 36,000 direct jobs and supporting an additional 200,000 indirect jobs. Their commitment to the workforce is evident with industry-leading pay, comprehensive benefits, and a unique upskilling program, Career Choice.
Amazon’s Dedication to Hampton Roads
Amazon’s expansion in Hampton Roads is more than just about jobs; it’s a testament to the region’s surge in innovation and economic growth. As Douglas L. Smith, President & CEO of Hampton Roads Alliance, puts it, Amazon’s dedication to Hampton Roads has been unwavering, marking a new milestone in their commitment to the region’s development.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Amazon’s growing footprint in Virginia Beach and the broader Hampton Roads region signifies a bright future, filled with innovation, economic growth, and opportunities for the local community. This move further cements Hampton Roads’ position as a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation on the East Coast.
Question & Answer
What did Governor Glenn Youngkin announce regarding Amazon’s expansion in Hampton Roads?
Governor Glenn Youngkin announced Amazon’s plans to establish a state-of-the-art robotics fulfillment center and delivery station in Virginia Beach, creating over 1,000 full-time jobs.
What are some of the strategic advantages of Virginia Beach that influenced Amazon’s decision to expand there?
Virginia Beach’s strategic advantages include its proximity to The Port of Virginia and a robust workforce, making it an ideal location for Amazon’s operations.
How many fulfillment and sortation centers will Amazon have in Virginia with the addition of the facilities in Virginia Beach?
With the addition of the facilities in Virginia Beach, Amazon will have a total of 14 fulfillment and sortation centers in the state of Virginia.
What is the focus of the 650,000-square-foot robotics center that Amazon plans to establish in Virginia Beach?
The robotics center will focus on processing small items like books, electronics, and toys, showcasing Amazon’s commitment to innovation in their operations.
