Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos recently announced a significant expansion of Netflix Studios Albuquerque, showcasing the company’s commitment to investing in the local production industry in New Mexico. The facility has seen nearly $900 million in total investment since 2019, solidifying its position as a key player in the state’s growing production ecosystem.
The expansion of Netflix Studios Albuquerque includes the addition of four new sound stages, three mills, one production office, two stage support buildings, and two dedicated backlot areas spread over 108 acres. This expansion is set to enhance the studio’s creative output and enable the production of even more compelling films and series for a global audience.
Sustainability Features
One of the notable aspects of the expanded studio is the incorporation of several sustainability features such as on-site solar and battery storage systems, geothermal heating and cooling, all-electric appliances, and 50 electric vehicle fast chargers. These initiatives aim to reduce the facility’s carbon footprint and lower operating costs, aligning with Netflix’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
New Mexico has proven to be an exceptional production hub for Netflix, offering diverse landscapes, a talented workforce, and a supportive community. The studio has been home to a range of projects, including popular series like Stranger Things, The Harder They Fall, Army of the Dead, and El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie. The studio’s contributions to the local economy have been significant, with direct investments totaling nearly $575 million and over 4,000 cast and crew members hired from the state.
In 2022, Netflix launched the “Netflix in Your Neighborhood” website, inviting fans to explore filming locations of Netflix projects in various parts of New Mexico. The platform features over 100 filming locations and cultural sites across eight titles, including popular shows like Stranger Things, Chupa, Better Call Saul, The Harder They Fall, and Army of the Dead. This initiative aims to bring the excitement of Netflix’s films and series beyond the screen and into the local community, contributing culturally to the state.
Acknowledgments
Ted Sarandos expressed his gratitude to key stakeholders, including New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, Senator Ben Ray Luján, Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, and various vendor partners who supported the expansion of Netflix Studios Albuquerque. The collaborative effort of over 2,800 construction workers involved in the expansion played a crucial role in bringing the project to fruition, highlighting the importance of partnerships in fostering growth and development in the local production industry.
The expansion of Netflix Studios Albuquerque represents a significant investment in the future of New Mexico productions, providing opportunities for creative growth, economic development, and community engagement. Netflix’s continued commitment to sustainability, innovation, and collaboration underscores its position as a leader in the global entertainment industry, driving positive impact at both local and global levels.