JERSEY CITY ? In a press release Mayor Steven M. Fulop announced on Monday that the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) board under the Grow NJ Assistance (Grow NJ) program awarded $13.1 million for the relocation of VF Sportswear ? the parent company of modern American classic Nautica and Kipling ? to Jersey City, which will bring 175 jobs.

?We are aggressively marketing Jersey City as the place to locate your business in the New York metropolitan area and to develop Jersey City as the best mid-size city in America,? said Mayor Fulop. ?Our location, our transportation network, our lower operating costs, our diversity, and our highly-skilled workforce are all reasons why companies are choosing to bring their businesses ? and their jobs and tax dollars ? here. We will continue to work with the State to provide incentives to businesses looking to relocate to Jersey City.?

VF Sportswear ? a global lifestyle apparel and footwear company ? was approved for a Grow NJ award of up to $13.1 million over ten years to encourage the comany?s relocation from New York City to a new facility in Jersey City instead of Norwalk, Connecticut. Several senior executives as well as finance, accounting, retail operations and other administrative groups are among the 175 jobs to be relocated within the State.

?The EDA has developed a robust incentive program and through their professionalism and dedication to expanding business opportunities in New Jersey, we will see cities like Jersey City continue to be a beacon for business relocation, expansion and retention,? said Mayor Fulop.

The city is in discussion with VF Sportswear on local business incentives and where to partner as well. The Fulop administration is scheduled to release next month a rebranding and marketing proposal to attract individuals and businesses to relocate to Jersey City and to grow the city as a tourism destination.

Read more: Hudson Reporter - b NJEDA awards 13 million to relocate company to Jersey City b