Christmas 2010 was a little merrier for Southeast Tennessee in 2010, as Amazon.com announced plans to build large distribution centers in Bradley and Hamilton counties.
The world’s largest internet retailer said the centers would eventually employ some 1,400 individuals full-time and 2,000 seasonally. Estimates were that the Amazon.com facilities would spike the area’s annual payroll to at least $64 million.
“We’re excited to be opening two new facilities in Tennessee to allow us to serve customers more quickly and efficiently,” said Dave Clark, Amazon.com’s vice president for North American operations. The company said it would spend $139 million on the two 1 million-square-foot facilities.
Gov. Phil Bredesen called Amazon.com’s announcement “a strong endorsement of Tennessee’s business climate.”