Rick Scott Praises Publix for $188.5 Million Distribution Center in Orlando

Lakeland-based Publix is going to build a $188.5 million distribution center in Orlando that will employ 156 within three years, the governors office announced Monday.

"It is always good news for Florida when a company expands and increases its investment here, Scott stated in a release.

Publix has a well-known history as one of Floridas leading corporate citizens and contributors to our economic growth.

Confronting the current economy, Publix has focused on improving its existing locations -- remodeling more than 100 stores last year, replacing some of its older locations with new buildings, and expanding its liquor stores, according to the Lakeland Ledger.

According to a release from the governors office:

Partners in this corporate expansion project were the state of Florida, Enterprise Florida Inc., the states principal economic development organization, the city of Orlando, and the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission.

Publix has received approval from the state and city of Orlando for an incentive package totaling about $3.8 million. It includes: A Brownfield Redevelopment Bonus tax refund, which is performance-based, requiring the company to fulfill staffing and other contractual objectives before receiving tax rebates.

An Economic Development Transportation Fund (Road Fund) grant, which is awarded to a local government on behalf of a business for public transportation improvements. Publix also is eligible for the following workforce development benefits the state provides: Quick Response Training -- an employer-driven training program that provides current Florida businesses with training needed for an expansion.

A project of this magnitude is quite rare, especially in times like these, Rick L. Weddle, president and CEO of the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission, stated in the release. We are pleased that Publix Super Markets chose Central Florida for this new distribution center.