L4 Logistics | Transport Shipping and Logistics News

“The move to Jacksonville provides us the opportunity to leverage our strong management team in our current Jacksonville facility and draw upon the high quality workforce that exists in the Jacksonville market,” said Tom DeCaro, Executive Vice President Supply Chain for Michaels. “The move allows us to continue to grow our excellent relationship with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd., with the opening of their new terminal at the Port of Jacksonville.” Michaels will lease 300,000 square feet of space on Commonwealth Avenue for the handling and distribution of seasonal merchandise to stores in the Southeast. The new facility will add approximately 50 full-time associates and will expand by approximately 100 temporary associates for the peak season. “This announcement is good news for Jacksonville,” said Rick Ferrin, JAXPORT’s Executive Director. “We are pleased to know our port and intermodal facilities have played a major role in another business expansion in Northeast Florida, generating new jobs and economic impact for our community.” Michaels currently moves more than 1,000 containers into Jacksonville and expects that number to increase to approximately 4,000 annually. The new facility will begin receiving shipments in early May with distribution to stores beginning a few weeks later. Michaels will continue to import goods into Savannah until MOL and/or other ocean container carriers initiate service to Jacksonville. “We’re excited Michaels has selected Jacksonville to grow its company,” said JEDC Executive Director Ron Barton. “This decision is another example of the momentum our city is building in the area of supply chain logistics.” Michaels currently operates a 505,000 square foot regional distribution facility in Jacksonville, employing approximately 160 full-time associates. The facility opened in 1995. “In addition to being a targeted industry, Michaels is a good corporate citizen, and we’re delighted to see one of our existing companies continue to expand in our region,” said Cornerstone Chair Michael Shalley. Source: Press Release