SMITHFIELD (N.C.) (WNCN), — Amazon’s new distribution center is expected to make a major impact on Johnston County.
This is a great thing for Smithfield. Smithfield mayor Andy Moore said to CBS 17 that they have been waiting several years for this.
Amazon’s new warehouse, which spans more than 620,000 sq. ft. will not just be a space-hog in the city. Mayor Moore has expressed excitement about the 1,000 employees the company intends to hire to manage the operations of the facility.
They have exceeded expectations. Moore stated that “they initially told us they were expecting 500 people.”
These 1,000 workers will be working alongside robots and automated system to complete orders in minutes. Amazon anticipates that 1 million items will be sorted every day in Smithfield, a facility measuring 11 football fields. They expect this to double on Prime Day.
Eric Arnold, the General manager of the company, says that they are only operating at half capacity. As more staff are hired, more shipments will be processed.
We’ve been busier in the last 10% to 15% of volume [increase] Every week. Arnold stated that we will continue ramping up our capacity until it reaches its maximum.
The starting pay for the first day is $17, with all benefits included. Amazon offers college tuition programs to all employees, even those that do not intend to pursue a career at the company.
The labor market in this area has been phenomenal. “We’ve seen an incredible turnout, and are still on schedule and have several weeks to hire,” Arnold said.
Online retailers are not only attracting the attention of potential employers, but also other companies.
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Not only are there new businesses popping up, but also housing developments centers. Moore stated that you can already see construction on the massive residential area.
When fully operational, the online platform will be one of the top city employers and tax payers.
The company has two similar facilities in the State.