Easley, Michael. Press Release, 2005-01-26, Gov. Easley Announces Sysco Corporation To Locate In Selma Latest JDIG Recipient To Create Up To 600 Jobs And Invest $37 Million In The State

Michael F. Easley Governor State of North Carolina Office of the Governor For Release: IMMEDIATE Contact: Lauren Mims Date: January 26, 2005 Phone: 919/733-5612 GOV. EASLEY ANNOUNCES SYSCO CORPORATION TO LOCATE IN SELMA Latest J DIG Recipient To Create Up To 600 Jobs And Invest $37 Million In The State RALEIGH — Gov. Mike Easley announced today that SYSCO Corporation plans to build a 300,000- square-foot distribution center in Selma, creating up to 600 jobs over the next seven years and investing $37 million in the area. SYSCO Corporation is the 23rd recipient of the state's Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG). “SYSCO’s decision to locate in North Carolina is a tremendous win for the company, the community and the state,” said Easley. “They chose North Carolina because of our excellent workforce, our strong and continuing support of education and our business- friendly climate.” The company is purchasing about 80 acres off U.S. 70 bypass in Johnston County. SYSCO plans to start construction on their new facility this spring and will begin hiring for the new positions after construction begins. The average annual salary for the new employees exceeds $45,000 a year plus benefits. SYSCO is the largest foodservice, marketing and distribution organization in North America, generating sales last year of $29.5 billion. The company’s 155 distribution locations in the U.S. and Canada provide food and related products and services to about 400,000 restaurants, healthcare and educational facilities, lodging establishments and other customers. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, SYSCO has more than 46,000 employees in North America. The company has other North Carolina locations including, SYSCO Food Services of Charlotte, a major food distribution subsidiary in Concord, a chain restaurant distribution center in Charlotte and a produce distribution facility in the Raleigh area. Overall SYSCO presently employs 701 workers in North Carolina. “Our business continues to expand and this new distribution center will allow us to provide better service for customers in the Raleigh market area and give us the opportunity to become a viable part of this community,” said Jack Carlson, SYSCO vice president Real Estate & Construction. “Johnston County was chosen because of the outstanding workforce available, the lifestyle and amenities afforded by the community and the willingness of the city, county and state officials to assist in securing economic development incentives and other assistance.” (more) Governor's Press Office State Capitol. Raleigh, NC 27603-8001 (919) 733-5612 - Toll Free 1-800-662-7005 FAX (919) 733-5166