It's Official: Amazon Fulfillment Center Coming To Bessemer

BESSEMER, AL - After months of speculation, a deal has been reached that will bring an Amazon fulfillment center to Bessemer. The official announcement by Amazon was made Friday morning. The Birmingham Business Alliance says the new Amazon facility will bring an economic impact of $700 million to Bessemer.

The center should open in July of 2019 and bring at least 1,500 new jobs to the area with benefits beginning day one. The facility will be built near Bessemer High School off Powder Plant Road. According to release from Amazon regarding the announcement, full-time employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including healthcare, 401(k) and company stock awards immediately.

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“Alabama has a talented workforce and we look forward to making a positive economic impact in a state where we are committed to providing great job opportunities and an exceptional customer experience,” said Mark Stewart, Amazon’s Vice President of North America Customer Fulfillment.

Birmingham's bid to land the second Amazon HQ fell short last fall, but not before the city's pitch to Amazon received some national attention for its innovative ad campaign. The campaign, created by Birmingham marketing firm Big Communications, was praised nationwide.

Bessemer Mayor Kenneth Gulley told ABC 33/40 Amazon’s $325 million to build a 855,000 square-foot facility is the largest single private investment in Bessemer’s 131-year history. The hiring process will take place from July-October. Bessemer will use Old City Hall/Civic Center to host job fairs in coming months.

Of Alabama's neighbors, Florida and Tennessee have five fulfillment centers, while Georgia has three.

Photo courtesy of Big Communications

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