Online retail giant Amazon is to create 950 new jobs across two sites in Scotland, it has been announced.
The majority of the posts—750—will be created at a newly-built plant distribution centre in Dunfermline, Fife, with another 200 jobs being added at the firm's warehouse in Gourock, Inverclyde. At times of peak demand, up to 1,500 temporary jobs could also be created at the warehouse.
The new one million square foot distribution centre in Dunfermline will be Amazon's biggest in the UK. It is to replace a smaller plant at Glenrothes, also in Fife, with existing staff set to transfer.
The centre will be situated on a 39 acre site previously owned by Scottish Enterprise and Fife Council alongside the M90, near to the junction with the A92.
Commenting on the news, first minister Alex Salmond said: “Amazon has established itself as one of the world's leading online retailers and I am delighted with its decision to expand its Scottish operations and to create 950 jobs.”
He went on to say: "The company's announcement of new investment in Scotland is a strong reflection on the success of its current operations and the skills of the local workforce. These new jobs are a welcome boost to the economy and a demonstration of Amazon's commitment to doing business in Scotland."
Vice president of European Operations at Amazon, Allan Lyall, added: "Amazon is delighted that its biggest UK fulfilment centre is to be built in Dunfermline. It is a great location and it has been Amazon's priority to secure a new site as close to the current Glenrothes fulfilment centre as possible in order to preserve and transfer the entire skilled workforce with all its experience and Amazon knowledge.
“Our decision to base this major expansion in Scotland, against stiff international competition, is due not only to the excellent local workforce but to the impressive professionalism of Scottish Development International."
Established in 1998, Amazon offers a variety of products over the internet, including books, movies, music, PC and video games, software and electronics.
Plans for Amazon to increase its presence in Scotland will receive financial support from Scottish Enterprise—£2 million in Regional Selective Assistance and £500,000 in training grants.
