JACKSON TOWNSHIP, Mahoning County, Ohio - Department store chain Macy's has confirmed plans to expand at its North Jackson distribution facility to operate a fulfillment center. Macy’s announced on Wednesday it will add 417 new jobs and retain 55 employees. 

The project, which will include a $29.9 million investment, was selected over alternative sites in West Virginia and Illinois because of what Macy’s executives say is North Jackson’s logistical excellence and access to skilled employees.

The company plans to begin renovations in mid-March and anticipate completion by August.

“Macy’s Bailey Road Distribution Center has been selected as a new customer fulfillment location to support our growing macys.com digital business, adding fulfillment to the existing store delivery, furniture and bedding operations,” said Macy’s, Inc. Chief Supply Officer Dennis Mullahy.

Following Macy’s initial inquiry to Team NEO, a partnership was formed among JobsOhio, the Western Reserve Port Authority, the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber, and the Ohio Development Services Agency.

The team worked with Macy’s corporate management to provide the information, insights, and resources that ensured they chose North Jackson for the expansion project.

“Macy’s selection of the Lordstown area is a testament to the opportunity in this part of the region,” said Team NEO CEO Bill Koehler. “The North Jackson/Lordstown corridor has witnessed impressive announcements in the past several years with seven companies committing to create more than 5,200 new jobs.”

On Monday, the Ohio Tax Credit Authority approved a 1.472% eight-year job creation tax credit for the project.

The addition of the fulfillment center would increase payroll by $16 million and keeping the current $2.1 million payroll.

Jackson Township trustee Tom Frost said he's excited about the possibility of the project and feels the township is a great location for this expansion.

"With the two very large interstates, 76 and 80 that actually criss-cross in our Township boundaries...I think we're second to none when it comes to location," Frost said.