At a press event in downtown Newark, NJ this morning, Panasonic officially announced that it will be moving its U.S. headquarters from Secaucus to Newark, NJ. The company considered multiple options when moving its base of operations, both in and out of the state (Brooklyn, NY and California locations were apparently considered), but was able to reach an agreement with city and state officials that all parties found beneficial.
"Panasonic could have gone anywhere on this continent, but they elected to stay in New Jersey and to relocate to the state's largest city," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno. "That is a win for both the state and Newark. Additionally, Panasonic's decision to come to Newark is a significant milestone in the city's continuing revitalization."
Besides bringing new business to the city of Newark, the move will keep 1,000 jobs in the state of New Jersey.
"Panasonic's arrival demonstrates a confidence in our city -- in our workforce, in our infrastructure, and in our future," said Mayor Cory A. Booker. "This is a monumental moment for Newark -- a true milestone in our city's rebirth and revitalization. It is also a reaffirmation of Panasonic's corporate values, including its commitment to making a positive 'Contribution to Society.'"
Panasonic's U.S. headquarters is currently located in Secaucus, New Jersey. However, the company plans to move into a new state-of-the-art, sustainable high-rise office building sometime in 2013. A joint effort between Matrix Development Group and SJP Properties, the new structure will be located adjacent to Newark's One Riverfront Center, which makes it easily accessible via mass transit.
"This is a very exciting time in the life of Panasonic," said Joseph M. Taylor, chairman and CEO of Panasonic Corporation of North America. "This is the culmination of a very exhaustive process for us in which we examined all of the options available to us that would meet our needs and goals for our future as a green business technology leader. We are most grateful to the State of New Jersey and City of Newark for their support and efforts to make it possible for Panasonic and its employees to remain right here in New Jersey."
In addition to Booker, Guadagno and Taylor, Wednesday's event included Deputy Mayor for Economic and Housing Development Stefan Pryor, members of the Newark Municipal Council and other dignitaries.
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