JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Volkswagen Group of America has chosen to locate its Southeastern import facility and distribution center for cars and SUVs in Jacksonville.
Gov. Rick Scott joined local officials in announcing that the $3 million facility at Jacksonville Port Authority's Blount Island facility is expected to create 100 jobs.
"Florida's ports are one of the many reasons why companies are choosing our state as the best place to grow their business," Scott said.
The renovated Volkswagen plant and properties are expected to receive and process factory-about 100,000 new Volkswagen, Audi and Bentley vehicles per year.
"Floridians have demonstrated a strong support for the Volkswagen Group of America brands, and selecting the Port of Jacksonville as our Southeastern U.S. port is part of our growth strategy," said David Geanacopoulos, executive vice president of Volkswagen Group of America Inc. "In utilizing Jaxport,, we will be able to bring Audi, Bentley and Volkswagen products closer to our Florida customers and provide enhanced customer service in this key market."
The announcement further solidifies JaxPort as the nation's No. 1 port for vehicle exports.
"This announcement reflects what all of us at JaxPort already know: our tenants, partners and employees are dedicated to offering creative shipping solutions and unmatched customer service, reinforcing our reputation for vehicle-handling excellence each and every day," said Board Chairman John Falconetti.