Florida Gov. Rick Scott has revealed Publix Super Markets’ intention to build a 1-million-square-foot distribution center in Orlando with a $188.5 million capital investment. Plans additionally call for the creation of 156 new jobs during the facility’s first three years of operation.

“It is always good news for Florida when a company expands and increases its investment here,” said Scott. “Publix has a well-known history as one of Florida’s leading corporate citizens and contributors to our economic growth.”

According to Publix VP of distribution Richard Schuler, the Lakeland-based grocer is working to get the refrigerated DC up and running by the fourth quarter of 2014. “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,” he explained. “Orlando was the best choice given inbound and outbound deliveries and the proximity to major roadways.”

Partners in the project are 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 (EDC).

“The Publix distribution center will create quality jobs for residents and infuse a significant amount of capital in our city,” noted 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,” added EDC president and CEO Rick L. Weddle.
 

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