News Summary
Walmart has announced a $300 million investment to establish a new fulfillment center in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, creating over 300 jobs. The 1.2 million square-foot facility will enhance Walmart’s eCommerce capabilities, handling large orders like lawn mowers and patio furniture. Governor Josh Stein highlighted the state’s business-friendly environment as a reason for attracting this investment, which is projected to generate significant economic growth and offer competitive salaries. Despite optimism, some analysts question the effectiveness of financial incentives for corporate growth.
North Carolina is set to welcome a significant investment from Walmart aimed at bolstering the local economy and enhancing the retailer’s eCommerce capabilities. The company has announced plans to invest $300 million in a new fulfillment center located at 799 Sara Lee Access Road in Kings Mountain, which is expected to create over 300 jobs in Gaston County.
The fulfillment center will span 1.2 million square feet and will be designed to handle large e-commerce orders, such as lawn mowers and patio furniture. This facility not only indicates Walmart’s commitment to expanding its eCommerce operations but also highlights the company’s strategic focus on improving logistics and distribution in the growing online shopping sector. The center is projected to open in 2027.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein emphasized the state’s favorable business climate, which includes strong workforce development programs and a reliable transportation network, as key factors in securing Walmart’s investment. The Economic Investment Committee of the North Carolina Commerce Department has also approved a Job Development Investment Grant for Walmart, valued at $4 million over a span of 12 years. This grant will reward Walmart based on job creation and investment targets, with the potential to receive up to $3.67 million in reimbursements.
The initiative is anticipated to generate approximately $791 million in economic growth for the state over the grant’s 12-year duration. Analysts predict a robust return on investment from the grant, estimated at 174%, which translates to approximately $2.74 in new revenue for every public dollar spent. The average salary for the newly created positions will be $69,360, significantly above Kings Mountain’s current average annual salary of $45,507.
Walmart’s decision to establish this fulfillment center in Kings Mountain over other competitive locations, including a runner-up site in Spartanburg, South Carolina, showcases the initiative of state officials and local leaders in working collaboratively to enhance the region’s appeal as a favorable investment destination.
Currently, Walmart operates more than 214 stores and Sam’s Clubs in North Carolina, employing over 62,300 workers across the state. In addition, the company has invested heavily in local suppliers, spending over $9 billion with North Carolina-based businesses during the fiscal year 2025. This further demonstrates Walmart’s significant economic footprint in the state.
However, while the investment brings optimistic projections regarding job creation and economic stimulus, some analysts remain skeptical about the overall effectiveness of financial incentives for corporate expansions. Critics question whether such incentives truly result in the expected benefits for local economies and communities.
Kings Mountain itself has a population of about 11,000 residents and is located approximately 30 miles from downtown Charlotte. The decision to build a large fulfillment center in this area will have ripple effects, potentially revitalizing the local job market and supporting families who live in and around Kings Mountain.
As Walmart continues to adapt to the changing retail landscape, this investment in North Carolina signifies a growing commitment to enhancing its distribution network to better cater to the growing demands of e-commerce shoppers. The new fulfillment center will not only create jobs but also lay the groundwork for a more efficient supply chain network in the region, ultimately benefiting both the company and the local economy.
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Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
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