Amazon

Amazon expands into Nebraska, breaks ground in Papillion

Amazon is bringing its newest robotic fulfillment center location, along with 1,000 jobs, to the Omaha suburb of Papillion, Nebr.

“We are thrilled to be opening our first fulfillment center in the great state of Nebraska and bringing 1,000 full-time jobs with industry-leading pay and benefits to Omaha,” said Alicia Boler Davis, vice president of Global Customer Fulfillment at Amazon.

Ryan Companies, the project’s developer and builder, began the new construction project last month (October 2020); the project is expected to be complete in mid-late 2021.

“Amazon leverages its scale for good and makes investments to support communities. We appreciate the strong support from local and state leaders throughout the process, and we look forward to supporting the Nebraska community with great delivery options,” Davis said.

“Amazon has invested more than $96 million into Nebraska since 2010. Exciting things are definitely ahead, and we are grateful to the many, many individuals who worked together to make today happen. We are beyond enthusiastic about the many great opportunities Amazon’s growing presence in Sarpy County offers,” said Andrew Rainbolt, executive director at Sarpy County Economic Development Corporation.

Economists at the Greater Omaha Chamber evaluated the economic impact of the proposed site, noting the 1,000 jobs catalyzed by the project would help support an additional 603 workers in the community, according to an IMPLAN Trade / Flow analysis of the seven Eastern Nebraska counties served by the Greater Omaha Economic Development Partnership.

Additional analysis of the project suggested the facility, when fully operational, will add $203.9 million to the local economy each year.

 “It’s no coincidence why Amazon chose Greater Omaha, and Sarpy County specifically. This is a region that works together and aspires to more,” said David G. Brown, president and CEO, Greater Omaha Chamber.

Papillion Mayor David Black said many hands made Amazon’s decision to build their newest robotic-fulfillment center in Papillion possible, not the least of which was the city and surrounding area’s ability to meet both the rigorous demands of the facility’s build-out, as well as satisfy Amazon’s need for highly-skilled workers.

“We are proud of the spirit of collaboration that brings new business to our community; and, we are equally proud of the talented workforce we have at our disposal to fill the technical positions Amazon provides,” Mayor Black said.

Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts echoed Mayor Black’s remarks.

“Today’s announcement by Amazon is exciting news for Nebraska. Our state’s wonderful people and welcoming communities continue to attract major investments to the Good Life. Winning the project demonstrates our state’s resilience and economic vitality despite challenges,” Ricketts said.

“Sarpy County is the fastest-growing county in the state, and that doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a team effort that requires commitment from the state, the county and the economic development community. We’re proud to partner with Amazon and so many great organizations to bring Amazon’s newest robotic fulfillment center to Sarpy County,” said Sarpy County commissioner Don Kelly.