Nestle USA to shift shipments to JaxPort

WOODLAND HILLS, Calif. – Nestle USA will shift a majority of its U.S. to Puerto Rico shipments from the Port of New York and New Jersey to JaxPort, Florida Gov. Rick Scott announced Monday from California.

Nestle USA's volume to Puerto Rico is expected to grow by at least 400 percent over the course of the next six months, making it the fourth highest volume export for Nestle.

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"On top of Florida's great business climate and low taxes, Florida has 15 seaports that we have invested over $850 million in to ensure we are poised to lead the nation in expanded international trade opportunities," Scott said after a meeting with Nestle representatives in California. "Nestle already employs over 2,000 people in our state and we look forward to the many more jobs they will create by utilizing JaxPort. We will continue to meet with companies today in California to tell them why Florida is the best location for their business to succeed."
 
Paul Bakus, president of Nestle corporate affairs, said the company is excited to move the shipments south.

"Florida offers a great climate for our business to compete globally and JaxPort is ideally situated to effectively move our products to our expanding markets," Bakus said. "We applaud the governor's investment in Florida's springs because we believe a healthy environment is the backbone of a strong economy."

"Businesses are recognizing that Florida's ports provide a more cost-effective option and a better overall business environment than many of our competitors, and as a result are moving more of their freight through our ports," said Doug Wheeler, president and CEO of the Florida Ports Council. "The growth of global companies in Florida is a direct outcome of the commitment and focus of Gov. Scott, the Florida Department of Transportation and Florida's ports on enhancing the freight infrastructure in our state."

CEO Brian Taylor said JaxPort's commitment to the trade lane to Puerto Rico will continue to grow.

"This good news reinforces the fact that Jacksonville and Florida remain the primary gateway for serving the people of Puerto Rico," Taylor said.