We usually report about how Netflix has just spent millions on the rights to a massive intellectual property, or how they signed an exclusive deal with some incredible creator. Today, however, the streaming service has decided to spend a little money on infrastructure. And it’s a huge purchase.
Netflix has planted a flag in the state of New Mexico, where the streaming giant has purchased the ABQ Studios in Albuquerque. When the deal is done, the company has promised to bring $1 billion of TV/film production to the state of New Mexico over the next decade. This is the streaming company’s first foray into studio purchasing, and will now allow Netflix to streamline their production process, similar to the way that major studios like Disney, Marvel, Fox, Universal, etc. have been doing it for years.
“Netflix is at the cutting edge of the film and television industry and it’s an honor to welcome them to New Mexico. After years of hard work to cut taxes and make New Mexico business-friendly, we’re seeing incredible results. Now, New Mexico is leading the nation in economic growth and lowering unemployment and we’ve brought the world’s leading internet entertainment service, Netflix, to our state,” said Governor Susana Martinez in a statement (via The Wrap).
Of the projects that Netflix is currently developing, “Daybreak,” “Chambers,” and “Messiah” are all going to make use of the new studios. Previously, ABQ Studios was home to films like “The Avengers,” “Logan,” and “Sicario,” as well as TV shows like “Better Call Saul,” “Breaking Bad,” and “Preacher.” This isn’t the first time that the streaming giant has produced content in the state of New Mexico. “Godless” and “Longmire,” among others, have already called the state home.
The purchase of ABQ Studios will also mean job growth for Albuquerque, as the streaming service plans on hiring up to 1,000 production jobs each year over the next decade.