NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) – A new Amazon facility in North Myrtle Beach is bringing jobs and a faster delivery speed to the Grand Strand just in time for the holidays.

“Welcome Amazon to the City of North Myrtle Beach,” said North Myrtle Beach Mayor Marilyn Hatley.

The newly opened facility was years in the making and now has many opportunities to bolster the local economy.

“It’s going to create jobs for the community and for years we’ve talked about diversifying our economy and so that’s what we’re doing out at the Palmetto Industrial Park,” said Hatley.

Hatley said it’s that diversification that they hope will keep the economy strong year-round – especially when it comes to those seasonal workers after the summer ends.

City Councilwoman Nikki Fontana said that in addition to the economic benefits, there’s also something in it for consumers.

“I just think it’s going to add another level of convenience for everyone who doesn’t want to get out and shop,” she said.

That’s especially important with holidays right around the corner.

The same-day facility promises delivery within 24 hours, with many packages arriving just five hours after ordering.

Sam Blatt – Amazon’s Economic Development manager for Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina – said it will make a difference this holiday season.

“For this facility specifically, you know it’s going to be great to help people get those last-minute gifts if they need them or to get some of that holiday shopping out of the way early. With that fast delivery promise that we offer at the facility,” said Blatt.

Amazon announced it would be hiring 2,000 seasonal workers state-wide with many being hired here in North Myrtle Beach making at least $18 an hour.

In addition, this new facility will provide about 100 full-time positions.

“I just think it’s great to have Amazon here and I just want to welcome them to our city,” said Fontana.

Hatley hopes this facility attracts others to continue diversifying the economy, but she said there will be a balance.

“We’re going to be very careful on what type of companies because we want good quality companies to be a part of our community,” said Hatley said.

Blatt told WMBF News that dozens of those full-time positions have been filled.

He said jobs are posted on Fridays after 7 p.m.

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