Quebec-based contractor Broccolini to build sprawling new Amazon fulfillment centre in Ottawa suburbs

The tech company’s fulfillment centres typically cover hundreds of thousands of square feet. PHOTO: Amazon

OTTAWA—Online retail giant Amazon has revealed plans to build a one million sq. ft. fulfillment centre just east of Ottawa.

The Orléans, Ont. facility will become Amazon’s fifth in the province and employ some 600 workers when it opens in 2019.

The sprawling new facility, where workers will pick and pack online purchases for shipment, will also be the largest industrial facility ever built in the Ottawa area, according to site developer Broccolini.

The Montreal-based construction contractor and real estate development firm said it will build the project on an accelerated timeline. Once complete, Broccolini will serve as the site’s property manager with Amazon as a tenant.

“Amazon will benefit from our considerable and diversified expertise to coordinate all development & construction aspects from the outset through to delivery, as well as Broccolini’s management experience that comes with its impressive portfolio and properties,” said James Beach, director of Real Estate and Business Development at Broccolini.

Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson said the city has been working closely with the U.S. tech giant on the investment decision.

“This is a critical investment in our local economy and our community, which will provide significant employment opportunities for Ottawa residents,” he said.

Along with the 600 positions at the completed warehouse, work on the facility is expected to create 1,500 jobs during construction.