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Paramount Expands Production Footprint in New Jersey

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, February 25th 2026 at 2:48 GMT by Los Angeles Times
      Locales: New Jersey, New York, UNITED STATES

Ridgefield, NJ - February 25th, 2026 - Paramount Global today announced a significant expansion of its production capabilities with the signing of a 10-year lease for a sprawling 33-acre production facility in Ridgefield, New Jersey. The move underscores Paramount's commitment to bolstering East Coast production and meeting the ever-increasing demand for content fueled by its streaming services and traditional television networks.

The deal, finalized Wednesday, secures a well-equipped facility previously occupied by Netflix. Paramount will seamlessly integrate Netflix's existing infrastructure, including seven state-of-the-art sound stages and extensive production support spaces, streamlining the transition and minimizing startup costs. This strategic acquisition allows Paramount to immediately capitalize on a ready-made production hub, a crucial advantage in the competitive media landscape.

This isn't simply a relocation of existing resources; it's a deliberate expansion. Paramount's Chief Operating Officer, Chris McCarthy, stated, "This expansion of our production footprint on the East Coast is a key part of our strategy to serve the growing demand for content." Industry analysts suggest this move is particularly savvy, positioning Paramount to capture a larger share of the expanding streaming market. The demand for original content continues to surge, driven by platforms like Paramount+, and securing dedicated production facilities is essential for maintaining a consistent and high-quality output.

The decision to base the facility in New Jersey is no accident. The state offers a compelling combination of incentives, skilled labor, and proximity to major metropolitan areas. New Jersey's film and television industry has been steadily growing, attracting investment and creating jobs. The state government has actively worked to cultivate a favorable environment for production companies, including offering tax credits and streamlined permitting processes.

Netflix's decision to scale back its New Jersey operations created an opportunity for Paramount, and the studio was quick to seize it. While Netflix cited a restructuring of its global production strategy as the reason for the downsizing, industry observers note a broader trend of streaming companies re-evaluating their investments and focusing on profitability. This presents a challenge for states like New Jersey, which rely on the economic impact of film and television production.

However, Paramount's investment is a clear vote of confidence in the New Jersey market and signals the state's continued relevance as a major production center. The ripple effects of this expansion are expected to be substantial, creating numerous jobs not only within the facility itself but also in surrounding businesses, including catering, transportation, and equipment rentals. Local businesses are already anticipating a significant boost in revenue.

Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the new facility is expected to foster a thriving creative community in the region. Paramount plans to collaborate with local film schools and universities, providing opportunities for students and aspiring filmmakers to gain hands-on experience. This commitment to talent development will help cultivate a pipeline of skilled professionals, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry in New Jersey.

Furthermore, Paramount's expansion highlights a broader shift in the entertainment industry towards decentralized production. For years, Los Angeles dominated as the primary hub for film and television production. However, rising costs and increased competition have led studios to explore alternative locations, including states like New York, Georgia, and now, even more prominently, New Jersey. This decentralization offers several advantages, including lower production costs, access to diverse locations, and the ability to tap into regional talent pools.

The 33-acre Ridgefield facility is more than just sound stages. It includes dedicated spaces for set construction, costume design, post-production editing, and visual effects. This comprehensive infrastructure allows Paramount to handle all aspects of production in-house, further enhancing efficiency and control. The studio is equipped with cutting-edge technology, ensuring it can meet the demands of modern filmmaking.

The long-term implications of this move are significant. Paramount's 10-year lease demonstrates a sustained commitment to the East Coast, potentially paving the way for further expansion and investment in the region. It's a strategic gamble that analysts believe will pay off, positioning Paramount for continued success in the rapidly evolving entertainment landscape. The studio aims to produce a diverse range of content, from blockbuster films to critically acclaimed television series, all under one roof in the heart of New Jersey.