American Eagle Outfitters Plans Salisbury, North Carolina, Distribution Operations

Area Development News Desk

07/20/2026

Specialty apparel retailer American Eagle Outfitters plans to establish operations in Salisbury, North Carolina . The $41 million project is expected to create more than 200 jobs.

The company’s new 472,890-square-foot distribution facility will be located at 1415 Peeler Road at Innovation Logistics Center.

“This distribution center is a key investment in AEO’s future growth,” said Keith Glivic, Senior Vice President, Global Distribution & Fulfillment at AEO Inc. “We look forward to creating jobs and building strong ties with the Rowan County community.”

To support the project a performance-based grant of $150,000 has been awarded by the One North Carolina Fund. The OneNC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. AEO must create 70 jobs to receive One NC grant payments. All OneNC grants require matching participation from local governments, and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

“With 150 million consumers within a day’s drive, North Carolina provides nationally recognized brands the connectivity they need to compete and grow,” noted N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “American Eagle’s decision to invest in Rowan County demonstrates the advantages of operating in our state, which include our strategic East Coast location, our robust transportation network, and our excellent quality of life.”

In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC), other partners in the project include the North Carolina General Assembly, Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solutions, the North Carolina Community College System, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, Duke Energy, Rowan County, the Rowan Economic Development Council, and the City of Salisbury.

American Eagle Outfitters is a specialty apparel retailer whose portfolio includes American Eagle, Aerie, OFFL/NE by Aerie, Todd Snyder, and Unsubscribed.

“AEO’s investment in Rowan County underscores the competitive advantages our community offers, including a highly skilled workforce, a strategic location with exceptional transportation access and a business-friendly climate that supports long-term growth,” added Rod Crider, President and CEO of the Rowan Economic Development Council. “We look forward to a strong partnership that will create quality jobs and strengthen our economy for years to come.”

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