Amazon announces first fulfillment center in North Dakota

Amazon on Friday announced the plan to open its first fulfillment center in the U.S. state of North Dakota in Fargo.

The site, which is anticipated to launch in 2021, will create 500 full-time jobs.

At the new 1 million square-foot fulfillment center, employees will pack and ship large customer purchases such as sports equipment, patio furniture, fishing rods, pet food, kayaks, bicycles and other household goods, the company said.

"Amazon leverages its scale for good and makes investments to support communities. We thank the local and state leaders for their support throughout the process, and we look forward to supporting the North Dakota community with great delivery options," said Alicia Boler Davis, Amazon's vice president of global customer fulfillment.

"This is a testament to North Dakota's attractive business climate, appealing communities and the strong work ethic of our citizens, and we look forward to being part of the company's growth," said North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum.