Amazon plans to open its first robotics fulfillment center in Shreveport, Louisiana. The 650,000 square-foot facility is expected to create over 1,000 new, full-time jobs.

Amazon Regional Director of Operations, William Hicks said, “Amazon may be a global business, but it’s made up of small businesses and communities. From the local jobs we bring, to the local people we employ, train, and upskill, our business is made up of people from communities like Shreveport. We’re thrilled to be able to expand our operations in Northwest Louisiana and we look forward to becoming part of the fabric of the local community.”

The state is offering $5 million as a performance-based grant to Amazon to offset the costs of infrastructure at the site. The grant would be spread out in two payments in 2022 and 2023. In addition, the Caddo Parish Industrial Development Board expects to approve a payment in lieu of taxes agreement with Amazon.

“This new Amazon project is a major advancement for the Shreveport-Bossier City metro area and for Louisiana’s economy,” said Governor John Bel Edwards. “In addition to providing strong benefits, Amazon will pay workers double the minimum wage or more in a state-of-the-art technology environment. Only a year ago, we dedicated Hunter Industrial Park as one site in a growing inventory of LED Certified Sites that now numbers 126 statewide. Through partnerships with our elected officials, economic development allies and utility partners, we are proving that great things are possible in Louisiana when we make smart plans for the future.”

From 2010-2019, Amazon said it has invested more than $250 million in Louisiana, including infrastructure and compensation to employees in the state. Investments in the state contributed an additional $220 million into the state’s economy over that same period.

“We are thrilled to have Amazon become a new major employer in North Louisiana,” said Chairman Chap Breard of the North Louisiana Economic Partnership. “Their decision to locate in Shreveport confirms that North Louisiana’s competitive strategic location, strong stakeholder partnerships and project-ready industrial sites are critical for success in economic development.”