Amazon opening fulfillment centre in Ottawa

OTTAWA – Rumours of the non-political kind swirling in the National Capital Region have finally been confirmed: Canadian real estate and construction developer Broccolini has won a contract with Amazon to develop a built-to-suit fulfillment centre in the Ottawa suburb of Orléans.

In excess of one million square feet, this fast-tracked project scheduled to open in 2019 will become the largest industrial facility ever to be constructed in the National Capital Region, and will create more than 600 new full-time jobs once operational. It will be Amazon’s fifth DC in Ontario, joining facilities in Brampton, Mississauga, and Milton.

Associates at this facility will pick, pack, and ship large items like household decor, sporting equipment and gardening tools. In total, Amazon employs more than 6,000 employees throughout Canada working at corporate offices, development centres, and other facilities.

“Amazon’s investment will be a major economic driver for our city’s east end,” said Ottawa city councillor for Cumberland, Stephen Blais. “This exciting project will create more than 1,500 construction jobs, supporting the growth of rural east Ottawa and all surrounding communities.”

“After working closely with Amazon to grow its presence in our city, I’m very pleased they have chosen Ottawa to establish its new fulfillment centre,” said Ottawa mayor, Jim Watson.” This is a critical investment in our local economy and our community, which will provide significant employment opportunities for Ottawa residents.”

“With this latest announcement, Broccolini will continue to deliver outstanding projects here in the National Capital Region, and we look forward to breaking ground for the new Amazon Ottawa fulfillment centre later this summer,” says James Beach, Broccolini’s director of real estate and business development.

In addition to its role as builder and developer of the Ottawa fulfillment centre, the company will also act as landlord and property manager.

“Amazon will benefit from our considerable and diversified expertise to coordinate all development and construction aspects from the outset through to delivery, as well as Broccolini’s management experience that comes with its impressive portfolio and properties,” adds Beach.

Broccolini’s real estate division currently owns and manages a portfolio of more than 40 properties, representing a total of over six million sq. ft. of assets.