MEMPHIS, Tenn. — FedEx said Tuesday that it is considering all its options when it comes to its major information center in Collierville.
After 20 years of tax breaks, it appears FedEx wants 20 more.
The World Technology Center has been in Collierville since 1998 and employs about 2,800 people.
If FedEx does not get the agreements it is looking for, it is possible the company could choose to move the tech center elsewhere.
Collierville said FedEx’s lease is up in 2018, so both sides are in negotiations now.
“FedEx is obviously not only Collierville’s but one of the Mid-South’s largest and best corporate citizens,” said Collierville Public Information Officer Mark Heuberger.
The facility develops software and contains a data center.
Fedex said in a statement, “Our investment in the people and local economy is proof of our commitment to the area, but as with any negotiation we must consider all options.”
Collierville’s Chamber told WREG it supports making concessions to keep FedEx here.
Some other residents feel the negotiations come off the wrong way.
“I feel like it’s a business move, but at the same time, it’s kind of, you know, you’re a big piece in the game, so you feel like you can take advantage of the smaller pieces,” said resident Nicholas Hughes.
“I believe they’re holding them ransom when they shouldn’t do that,” added resident Antonio Buford.
FedEx said it currently has three leases for the property and PILOTs from Shelby County and Collierville.
Collierville said it would not discuss the specifics of lease agreements until its Industrial Development Board meets Thursday.
FedEx would not elaborate on present or future agreements.
“We hope that the negotiations that come about through this process are very productive and that they make a decision to remain in Collierville,” Heuberger said.
Collierville said this negotiations process could take months.
Eventually, it will come down to a decision from the Mayor and Board of Aldermen on whether or not to approve an agreement.
