A $300 million Walmart fulfillment center will be located in the Kings Mountain portion of Gaston County, near the Cleveland County line. The retailer expects to create 300 jobs over two years at the fulfillment center, the state announced Tuesday.
Those new jobs will pay an average annual wage of $69,360, about 33% more than the current average in Gaston County of $52,180 and $50,379 in Cleveland County.
Walmart expects to complete its investment by Dec. 31, 2027. The jobs will be filled in 2027 and 2028.
“As our eCommerce business continues to grow, this new fulfillment center will play a critical role in helping us serve customers faster,” said Karisa Sprague, senior vice president, Supply Chain, Walmart U.S.
In North Carolina, Walmart has more than 214 stores and Sam’s Clubs as well as seven supply chain facilities. It employs more than 62,300 people. The retailer spends more than $9 billion with North Carolina suppliers and supports 88,000 supplier jobs in fiscal year 2025, according to a state release.
The state’s Economic Investment Committee awarded Walmart a state incentive grant valued at about $3.7 million. When combined with additions to the state utility and work force training programs, the grant’s value increases to more than $4.8 million. The city of Kings Mountain and Gaston County will contribute incentives of $4.7 million and $5.6 million, respectively, totaling more than $9.8 million.
Walmart employs about 4,000 workers at distribution and fulfillment centers in the state, not including retail staffers. This fulfillment center will provide e-customers with goods, including televisions, furniture and appliances.
Walmart chose Gaston County over Spartanburg, South Carolina, for the facility based on its availability of workers, cost of operations, overall business climate and incentive package, according to the state.
The Keith Corporation developed the 1.2 million-square-foot building where Walmart will be located. The Charlotte-based developer has had the building available for lease since 2023.