Netflix is opening a production hub in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where it plans to produce some of their films and TV shows, the company made in an announcement.
The streaming platform said it’s in final talks to purchase ABQ Studios, a facility with eight sound stages, production offices and a back lot in Albuquerque’s Mesa Del Sol. Netflix says they will use the new studio for several upcoming productions including an apocalypse drama Daybreak, supernatural drama Chambers, and epic, suspenseful drama Messiah.
The state of New Mexico gave Netflix film incentives to move to the state by offering $10 million in funding through the Local Economic Development Act. The City of Albuquerque also gave up another $4.5 million.
“After years of hard work to cut taxes and make New Mexico business-friendly we’re seeing incredible results,” New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez said in a statement.
Gov. Susana Martinez said in a statement Netflix would bring $1 billion in production to New Mexico over the next 10 years and create as many as 1,000 jobs.
This news comes after Netflix was reportedly planning on building a production hub in Los Angeles, California. However, as Deadline reports, production space in Los Angeles has become increasingly scarce as tech companies compete with production companies for sound stages. FilmLA found the occupancy for sound stages in Los Angeles at a staggering 96% in 2016.
Some of Netflix’s digital rivals have also taken steps to lock down production facilities including Apple and Amazon Studios.
Netflix is not leaving Los Angeles in the dust. The streaming giant signed a lease to occupy an entire 13-story office building in Hollywood.
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That said, this is a major move for one of the biggest streaming platforms in the world. Keep in mind, this is Netflix’s first purchase of a production studio complex.
“Our experience producing shows and films in New Mexico inspired us to jump at the chance to establish a new production hub here,” said Ty Warren, Netflix’s VP Physical Production. “The people, the landscape and the facilities are all stellar and we can’t wait to get to work — and employ lots of New Mexicans — creating entertainment for the world to enjoy.”
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