NETFLIX COMMITS $1 BILLION FOR ITS ABQ STUDIOS EXPANSION

Netflix announced its decision to double its production commitment in New Mexico with an additional USD 1 billion over the next 10 years as well as an expansion of its ABQ Studios in Albuquerque. “When we brought Netflix to Albuquerque, we put the spotlight on our city’s strong film economy and joined our brand to the one of the top companies in the new global economy,” Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller said. 

The studio expansion will add 300 acres to the company’s existing studios, located in Albuquerque’s Mesa Del Sol area. The new investment will lead to the creation of approximately 1,000 production jobs and 1,467 construction jobs in New Mexico over the next ten years.The ABQ Studios is projected to make USD 150 million in capital expenditures as up to 10 stages will be added as well as post-production services, production offices, mills, backlots, and training facilities, wardrobe suites, a commissary for meals and crafts, and other flex buildings to support productions."Now, with this expansion we’re looking forward to doubling the impact to 2,000 jobs for folks from all walks of life and a USD 2 billion investment into Albuquerque’s economy over the next decade," Keller said. "Between Netflix and the likely Orion Project, the Duke City is looking at the very real possibility of a transformative ‘new economy,’ redefining our workforce with aerospace and film jobs.”

Netflix purchased Albuquerque Studios in 2018 and has since spent more than USD 200 million in the state, utilized more than 2,000 production vendors, and hired over 1,600 cast and crew members. The platform also has production hubs in Los Angeles, Atlanta and Brooklyn, New York, and Vancouver.

The streamer also plans to move production for the upcoming fourth season of “Stranger Things” to ABQ Studios next year. Original films such as “The Harder They Fall” and “Intrusion” are currently in production in New Mexico. Other Netflix productions filmed in New Mexico include Army of the Dead, El Camino, Godless, Daybreak, Chambers, and Messiah. “Ever since Netflix first chose New Mexico, they have been nothing but an incredible partner, pushing the boundaries of innovation and expansion while providing fulfilling work opportunities for so many New Mexicans,” said Governor Lujan Grisham. 

New Mexico will provide up to USD 17 million in State LEDA funding and the City of Albuquerque will commit up to USD 7 million in local LEDA funding, including USD 6 million in infrastructure in-kind. The expansion will make ABQ Studios, located in the Mesa del Sol area, making it one of the largest high-tech and sustainable film production facilities in North America. “My administration has expanded our state’s competitive film incentives, facilitating higher-wage employment for New Mexicans all across the state, and increased opportunities for rural communities," Grisham said. "I am glad Netflix has chosen to double-down on its commitment to our state, and our partnership will continue to grow for the benefit of New Mexicans across the board.”