Gov. Nathan Deal today announced that Five Below, a leading high-growth value retailer, will create 130 jobs and invest $70 million to build a new distribution center in Monroe County. The initial investment includes $42 million in land and building and approximately $28 million in machinery and equipment. Additional investment will occur over the next five years.

“Five Below’s decision to invest in Monroe County directly reflects the strength of our workforce and Georgia’s strategic location for accessing the Southeastern market,” said Deal. “Georgia is perfectly positioned to support this distribution center and Five Below will benefit by locating distribution operations here in the No. 1 state in which to do business. We appreciate this investment in Monroe County and I am confident that Georgia’s transportation infrastructure will help Five Below serve its growing customer base.”

Founded in 2002, Five Below operates more than 650 stores in 32 states. The company expects to cut the ribbon on approximately 125 new stores in 2018.

“Five Below is excited to expand our distribution network in the state of Georgia,” said Five Below President and CEO Joel Anderson. “This distribution facility is expected to support Five Below’s store growth through the Southeast. We believe our ability to expand in Georgia to service our customers and our commitment to provide opportunities for employment will create a positive economic impact for the region.

Read the Governor’s announcement here.