American Eagle Outfitters Plans Major Expansion in North Carolina
In a significant economic development, American Eagle Outfitters Inc. (NYSE: AEO), a renowned specialty apparel retailer, has unveiled plans to establish a pivotal distribution hub in Salisbury, North Carolina. This strategic move will involve an investment of $41 million and is projected to generate over 200 new jobs in Rowan County.
Governor Josh Stein expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “American Eagle Outfitters will be a welcome addition to Rowan County. As one of America’s top states for business year after year, North Carolina continues to offer the stable economy, skilled workforce, and business-friendly environment that growing companies need to thrive.”
Established in 1977, American Eagle Outfitters encompasses a diverse range of apparel brands, including American Eagle, Aerie, OFFL/NE by Aerie, Todd Snyder, and Unsubscribed. With retail outlets across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the company’s products reach over 30 countries via a global licensing network. The firm’s robust e-commerce operations are supported by distribution centers located in Hazleton, Ottawa, Phoenix, and Mississauga, Ontario.
“North Carolina offers the workforce, infrastructure and strategic location needed to continue powering our brands and connecting us to customers,” remarked Jay Schottenstein, Executive Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer of American Eagle Outfitters. “We’re proud to have a presence in Rowan County and are excited about what this facility means for the long-term growth of our supply chain and distribution network.”
N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley added, “With 150 million consumers within a day’s drive, North Carolina provides nationally recognized brands the connectivity they need to compete and grow. 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.”
The upcoming positions offer varied wages, with the average annual salary for approximately 70 skilled roles, such as management, maintenance, and operations, estimated at $57,351. This figure aligns closely with the current Rowan County average salary of $57,155. The introduction of these new jobs could result in a payroll impact exceeding $4 million annually for the region.
To support the company’s establishment in North Carolina, AE Regional Distribution Co., LLC will receive a performance-based grant of $150,000 from the One North Carolina Fund. This fund assists local governments in attracting economic investment and job creation. The grants require companies to achieve job creation and capital investment goals before payments are made, with AEO needing to create 70 jobs for eligibility. Matching participation from local governments is also a prerequisite.
N.C. Representative Harry Warren commented, “This is exciting news for the City of Salisbury and Rowan County. Our success is built on our ability to work together on both the state and local levels to create the conditions that will set the course for continued growth region and the entire state of North Carolina.”
This initiative is supported by several key partners, including the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, 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.
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