Governor Northam Announces 60 New Jobs in Giles County

~Cogar Manufacturing to invest $2.5 million to relocate and expand manufacturing operation~

RICHMOND, VA – Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Cogar Manufacturing, a manufacturer of material handling equipment primarily for the natural resource industries, will invest $2.5 million to relocate its manufacturing operation from Beckley, West Virginia, to the former Caterpillar facility in Giles County. The company has expanded its manufacturing capabilities with the addition of a patented water removal and feeder system for coke producers, increasing Cogar’s customer base and requiring the expansion of its manufacturing footprint. The project will create 60 new jobs.

“Cogar Manufacturing’s decision to move operations from West Virginia to Giles County and expand production is a great testament to the Commonwealth’s competitive operating costs, extensive transportation network, and robust workforce,” said Governor Northam. “The New River Valley’s manufacturing community is booming, and Cogar will be a strong addition. I am thrilled that this new addition will revitalize a vacant facility and create 60 quality jobs in the local economy. We are proud to add another impressive manufacturer to the Commonwealth’s corporate roster, and look forward to Cogar’s future success in Giles County.”

Cogar Manufacturing was established in 1979 and has grown throughout the years, thanks to the dedication of its employees and the help of its customers. Headquartered in Beckley, West Virginia, the company has over 100 years of combined experience manufacturing new equipment and rebuilding existing equipment. Cogar manufactures crushing machines and materials handling and conveying equipment, primarily for the natural resource industries, but has been expanding into refineries and barge and ship transloading. The company has manufacturing facilities in West Virginia and Illinois and a sales and operations office in Texas.

“We are thrilled to welcome Cogar Manufacturing to Giles County and the Commonwealth, and look forward to building a successful partnership,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Esther Lee. “Cogar will move into the former Caterpillar facility in Pearisburg, bringing 60 critical employment opportunities back to the region. Virginia’s robust manufacturing workforce of over 240,000 guarantees a solid pipeline of talent for years to come, and we are confident that Cogar Manufacturing will be pleased with its decision to relocate to the New River Valley and the Commonwealth.”

John Cogar, Vice President of Cogar Manufacturing, expressed gratitude to the Commonwealth and to Giles County for the support offered to Cogar in making this decision to move to Virginia: “We are excited about the facility, which offers our company a viable opportunity to expand; we are excited about the work force of Giles County, which offers our company a highly qualified and experienced employee base, and we are grateful to the Commonwealth of Virginia and Governor Northam for supporting our efforts through a grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Giles County and Onward New River Valley to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Northam approved a $150,000 Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund investment to assist the County with the project. Funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

“We are very pleased that Cogar has chosen Giles County for its expansion. They represent true American manufacturing and will bring quality job opportunities here for our citizens,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff Morris.

“This is another great project for Giles County and a testament to the quality of resources, infrastructure, and workforce, that exists in the New River Valley,” added Giles County’s Industrial Development Authority Chairman Dr. S. Lee Wheeler.

“I’m proud of Giles County’s efforts to continue building on recent economic successes, which have brought more than 100 new jobs to the County in recent months,” said Delegate Chris Hurst. “We look forward to welcoming Cogar Manufacturing to the New River Valley.”

“I am very pleased that Cogar Manufacturing chose to relocate to Giles County,” said Senator John Edwards. “The collaborative efforts of Giles County and State Agencies in processing the opportunity funds will greatly benefit the region by providing 60 jobs at the former Caterpillar facility in Pearisburg. I welcome Cogar Manufacturing and commend them for investing in Virginia’s economy and the future of Giles County.”

Full Release

Office of the Governor
Contact: Ofirah Yheskel
Email: Ofirah.Yheskel@governor.virginia.gov

Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Contact: Suzanne Clark
Phone: (804) 545-5806
Email: sclark@yesvirginia.gov

Cogar Manufacturing
Contact: John Cogar
Phone: (304) 252-4435
Email: jcogar@cogarmanufacturing.com

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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Chartio to Expand to Blacksburg

BLACKSBURG, VA – Chartio, a cloud-based data company out of San Francisco, is expanding to Downtown Blacksburg. Chartio’s new offices will be located in The Brownstone Building. Chartio will hire five new engineers this year, and plans to increase by 10-15 more in the next three.

The tech company creates charts and interactive dashboards for businesses. Some of their clients include Squarespace, GAP, Prezi, and Blackboard.

This is a great addition for the New River Valley’s growing base of companies in the Information Technology industry.

Read more from WDBJ7. Check out Chartio’s Career page to apply for open positions in Blacksburg.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Governor McAuliffe Announces 83 New Jobs in Giles County

~ Interstate Group LLC to invest $4.1 million to establish East Coast manufacturing and distribution operation ~

 

GLEN LYN, VA – Governor Terry McAuliffe today announced that Interstate Group LLC, an industry leader in the manufacturing and sale of enclosed cargo trailers, will invest $4.1 million to establish a 100,000-square-foot East Coast manufacturing and distribution operation in the former GE Fairchild Mining Equipment plant in Giles County. Virginia successfully competed against North Carolina for the project, which will create 83 new jobs.

“We are thrilled that Interstate Group has selected Giles County and the Commonwealth as the home of its East Coast operations,” said Governor McAuliffe, speaking at the announcement. “This important project will not only create new jobs for an area that has been hard hit by recent closures, it will bring a shuttered plant back into productive use. With one of the nation’s largest transportation networks, an outstanding workforce, and competitive operating costs, the Commonwealth is the ideal location for Interstate Group as it expands its footprint. This is a major win for the New River Valley, and we are proud the company will contribute to our efforts to diversify and build a new Virginia economy.”

 

Founded in 1995, Interstate Group LLC is an industry leader in the manufacturing and sales of enclosed cargo trailers. The company is headquartered in Nampa, Idaho, and has manufacturing plants in Arkansas, Arizona, and Idaho.

 

“Strengthening the advanced manufacturing sector in the Commonwealth continues to be a top priority, and Interstate Group will be a great addition to the growing cluster in the New River Valley,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Todd Haymore. “Interstate Group joins nearly 6,000 manufacturing firms that operate in Virginia and generate more than $113 billion in direct annual economic output, and will bring vital, quality jobs to the region. We’re proud to add the company to our corporate roster, and we look forward to a long partnership.”


“Interstate is excited to select Glen Lyn as the location for our fourth and largest manufacturing plant,” said Michael Snow, CEO of Interstate Group. “We looked at other states in the region and at multiple locations in Virginia. The opportunity to repurpose an existing facility, combined with the incentives we received from the Commonwealth and Giles County, will help us reduce the cost of our investment while preserving our culture of high incentive-based pay for our team members. I have been very impressed with the understanding and responsiveness of the state and local officials to our needs and timelines. We look forward to being part of this community and making it the foundation of our growth on the East Coast.”

 

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Giles County and Onward New River Valley to secure the project for Virginia. Governor McAuliffe approved a $200,000 Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist the County with the project. The company will be eligible to receive Sales and Use Tax Exemptions on manufacturing equipment, and will also be eligible to receive a Major Business Facility Job Tax Credit. Funding and services to support Interstate Group’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

 

“This is great news for the entire New River Valley and we are very excited that Interstate Group has chosen Giles County as the location for its East Coast manufacturing facility,” said Richard McCoy, Chairman of the Giles County Board of Supervisors.

“These jobs are much needed in an economy that has been hard hit by downturns in the coal industry” added Dr. S. Lee Wheeler, Chairman of the Giles County Industrial Development Authority. We appreciate the work of the Economic Development Partnership, the Governor’s office, Onward New River Valley, and all of all those involved in making this a reality.”


Office of the Governor
Contact: Brian Coy
Email: Brian.Coy@governor.virginia.gov

 

Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Contact: Suzanne Clark
Phone: (804) 545-5806
Email: sclark@yesvirginia.org

 

Interstate Group LLC
Contact:  Michael Snow
Phone: 208 442 7640
Email: snowm@interstatecargo.com

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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of both worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

JBR Vineyards to Open New Farm Winery in Giles County

RICHMOND, VA – Governor Terry McAuliffe today announced that JBR Vineyards, LLC will expand its vineyard operation to open a farm winery in Giles County. The company will invest over a quarter of a million dollars in the construction of its new winery and tasting room, which will create two new jobs. JBR planted Giles County’s first vineyard in 2006 and plans to now expand the vineyard substantially to support its wine production. Through this expansion, JBR will use over 14 tons of Virginia-grown grapes in its wines over the next three years.

“JBR Vineyard’s continued growth and investment in Giles County is great news for Virginia’s rural areas and agriculture sector overall,” said Governor McAuliffe. “Investments like these create jobs and open new markets for agritourism in the region. Today’s announcement is a great win for Virginia’s agriculture industry as we continue with our ongoing efforts to build and diversify the new Virginia economy.”

“Through its commitment to producing high quality estate wines, JBR Vineyards is furthering Virginia’s efforts at growing this important sector of the economy,” said Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Basil Gooden. “I am pleased the Commonwealth could partner with Giles County through the AFID Program to support this local business in a flourishing industry.”

“The vineyard/winery industry in Virginia is starting to be noticed,” said co-owner of JBR Vineyards LLC and Giles County native Jessee Ring. “With our vineyard expansion, new facilities were needed and we chose to do that at the Giles County vineyard. We appreciate the help we have gotten from the County and the Commonwealth. We look forward to continuing this exciting journey!”

“We are excited that VDACS and the Governor’s Office continue to promote and support new business opportunities like JBR Vineyards,” said Chris McKlarney, Giles County Administrator. “Giles County is pleased to join with our Commonwealth of Virginia partners in the effort to expand our economy and create new jobs for our citizens. Agriculture is important to Giles County and the addition of a vineyard and winery will provide additional tourism opportunities for visitors to Virginia’s Mountain Playground.”

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services worked with Giles County and JBR Vineyards to secure this project for Virginia. Governor McAuliffe approved a $5,000 grant from the Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development Fund, which Giles County will match with local funds.

Full Release

Office of the Governor
Contact: Brian Coy
Email: Brian.Coy@governor.virginia.gov

Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Contact: Elaine Lidholm
Phone: (804) 786-7686
Email: Elaine.Lidholm@vdacs.virginia.gov

JBR Vineyards, LLC
Contact: Jessee and Deborah Ring
Phone: (540) 250-7293

Charlotte Gomer
Assistant Communications Director
Office of Governor Terence R. McAuliffe
Charlotte.Gomer@governor.virginia.gov

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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of both worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Governor McAuliffe Announces 40 New Jobs in Pulaski County

Governor McAuliffe’s office released the following press release earlier today:


~Koinonia Ltd. to invest $4.9 million to establish first U.S. manufacturing operation~


PULASKI COUNTY – Governor Terry McAuliffe today announced that Koinonia Ltd., a Brazilian-based manufacturer of foam and tape solutions for the automotive, refrigeration (HVAC), marine, construction, and heavy machinery industries, will invest $4.9 million to establish its first U.S. manufacturing operation in the ShaeDawn Industrial Park in Pulaski County. Virginia successfully competed against Indiana, North Carolina, Ohio, and Tennessee for the project, which will create 40 new jobs.


“Koinonia’s first U.S. manufacturing operation is an important win for the commonwealth and the New River Valley,” said Governor McAuliffe, speaking at the event. “Pulaski County’s strategic location and the region’s thriving automotive industry present solid future opportunities for the company as a supplier, pushing Virginia ahead of our competition. Koinonia selecting the commonwealth as its gateway to the U.S. market speaks volumes about our business environment and workforce, and we are proud the company will join our efforts to build a new Virginia economy.”

Founded in 2016, Koinonia (also known as Koi Foams) is a subsidiary of Koinonia Fitas e Pecas Tecnicas e Espumas Ltda, a Sao Paulo, Brazil-based company founded in 2009 that has a well-established customer base in Brazil. The company will manufacture industrial-scale ribbons and technical parts made from polyethylene, ethylene propylene diene monomer (M-class) (EDPM) rubber, nitrile rubber (NBR), neoprene, other rubbers, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and a variety of flexible materials. Koinonia’s core values include: effective service, honesty, quality, respect, professionalism, commitment, appreciation of people, and transparency and integrity in business relations.


“It’s an honor to welcome Koinonia to Pulaski County and to the growing sector of international advanced manufacturing companies, which currently represent more than $118 billion in direct annual economic output across Virginia,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Todd Haymore. “Koinonia is a supplier to a variety of industries and companies and undoubtedly will be a key economic asset to the New River Valley.”


“After searching different U.S. states for our plant, we at Koinonia decided to open our doors in Virginia for various reasons, including the great support from state and local authorities, lower cost of living, lower cost of energy, and the talented workforce from local colleges and universities,” said Koinonia Chief Operating Officer Marcio Lopes. “Virginia welcomed us with open arms, and it has been an honor and privilege to work with the Onward NRV team and, specifically, the people from Pulaski County.”


The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pulaski County and Onward New River Valley to secure the project for Virginia. Governor McAuliffe approved a $100,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist the County with the project. The company is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. Funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.


“We are thankful to the Governor and his economic development team for their support and assistance with securing this, our third new jobs announcement this year. These successes have yielded more than $55 million in new capital investments and approximately 200 new jobs for Pulaski County,” stated Jonathan D. Sweet, County Administrator, Pulaski County. “The Board of Supervisors has made it a priority for Pulaski County to become the center of international business and the advanced manufacturing hub of Southwest Virginia, and Koinonia’s commitment to join our esteemed international business community is further confirmation of our strategic efforts. The Koinonia family will be Pulaski County’s eighth international business that collectively represents more than 3,850 jobs in the New River Valley region of the Commonwealth, and we are immensely honored to have earned the company’s investment, trust, and friendship.”


“Koinonia’s investment and creation of 40 jobs is great news for the region and is a testament to the strength of the business environment created by Pulaski County with another international company calling the County home,” said Senator Ben Chafin. “Koinonia will be a wonderful addition to the County and business community. Creating advanced manufacturing jobs and opportunities is essential to growing the economy, and Koinonia will be an asset to success in the New River Valley.”


“The New River Valley is looking forward to having Koinonia as an additional partner in our global manufacturing efforts,” said Delegate Nick Rush. “We are confident the company will build strong relationships with local businesses, as Pulaski County’s established industries and companies recognize the importance of growing our region and supporting new opportunities. On behalf of the Seventh House District and the Commonwealth, I’m happy to welcome Koinonia to the New River Valley!”


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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of both worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.


Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Advanced Manufacturing welder

The Port of Virginia Awards Hubbell Lighting, Inc. and Wolverine Advanced Materials $406,500 in Grant Money

Two companies in Montgomery County were awarded a total of $406,500 in grant money by The Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Grant Program, which is made to facilitate the growth of the port by putting investment into maritime related business. Hubbell Lighting, Christiansburg, was awarded $315,000 and Wolverine Advanced Materials, Blacksburg, $91,500. The grant is available from 2014-2020 with a maximum for each grant at $500,000 each year, to an annual total of up to $5 million. Hubbell Lighting yellow and black logo Hubbell Lighting, Inc. is one of the largest lighting manufacturers in North America and services commercial, residential, and industrial markets all over the world. Hubbell invested an additional $6.015 million dollars and created 100 new jobs in the New River Valley in 2015 and is consistently a world leader in lighting innovation. New River Valley company, Wolverine red and black logo Wolverine uses the Port of Virginia to export their high-performance materials used in automotive and industrial noise reduction to key markets in China and India. In 2014, Wolverine invested $10.625 million and created 93 new jobs to expand its materials manufacturing operation. This grant program is an excellent opportunity for business in our area and helps exporting businesses continue to invest in our region. For more information about the Port of Virginia’s grant, visit the ED + Infrastructure Grant Program page.The Port of Virginia Ship linked to the Grant Program Webpage  

Governor McAuliffe Announces Spectrum Brands to Retrain Employees in Montgomery County

Company invests nearly $7.3 million in Pet, Home & Garden Division; Upgrades Equipment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: April 19, 2017

Commonwealth of Virginia Office of Governor Terry McAuliffe

RICHMOND– Governor Terry McAuliffe today announced that Spectrum Brands, Inc., a global consumer products company offering an expanding portfolio of leading brands, is investing $7.28 million over the next couple years in its Montgomery County operation to purchase equipment and upgrade its production processes. Spectrum Brands will receive funding from the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP) to support the retraining of existing employees on the new machinery.

“Spectrum Brands has been a vital corporate partner to Montgomery County for 25 years, and it is exciting to see this international company reinvest in its operation and workforce here in the Commonwealth,” said Governor Terry McAuliffe. “The advanced manufacturing industry is evolving rapidly, and retraining employees to learn new skills and processes is critical to keeping jobs in Virginia. We thank Spectrum Brands for its commitment to the New River Valley and for helping us diversify and build the new Virginia economy.”

“Spectrum Brands’ decision to invest in its Montgomery County operation and to retrain more than half of its workforce on new equipment is a great testament to the region’s business climate and talented workforce,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Todd Haymore. “Existing businesses are the heart of every successful economy, which is why retraining efforts are so significant. In Virginia’s ever-changing, over $100 billion manufacturing industry, ensuring that the workforce has the skills of the 21st century is paramount. We are confident that with this investment, Spectrum Brands will continue to thrive in the Commonwealth.”

Spectrum Brands – Pet, Home & Garden Division is a leading supplier of well-recognized consumer products for pet supply markets globally, and for the home, lawn and garden, insect and weed control markets nationally. Its companion animal products include treats, clean-up and training aid products, health and grooming aids, and bedding marketed under brands such as 8-in-1®, Dingo®, Digesteeze™, Healthy-Hide®, FURminator® and Nature’s Miracle®, and in pet food in Europe, IAMS® and Eukanuba®. In aquatics, Tetra® is the premium brand name with products including fish food and water treatments, aquariums, filters, heaters and other supplies. The division’s home & garden product portfolio includes highly recognized and trusted brands such as Spectracide®, Garden Safe®, Hot Shot®, Cutter®, Repel®, Black Flag® and Liquid Fence®.

“Blacksburg has been central to the success of our aquatics brands for more than 20 years, and our manufacturing center there has grown into a major production facility for our entire division,” said John Schostek, Vice President, Global Operations – Spectrum Brands Pet, Home & Garden Division. “Our company continues to grow, and we plan to invest in the Blacksburg plant to upgrade and expand its capabilities. The Virginia Jobs Investment Program supports our commitment to provide our employees with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership will support Spectrum Brands’ job retraining through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP). VJIP provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs or experiencing technological change to support employee training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state-funded, demonstrating the Commonwealth’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities for its citizens.

“Programs like VJIP benefit the company, its employees, and the community as a whole,” said Montgomery County Board of Supervisors Chair Chris Tuck. “Montgomery County is growing and our Board and staff is doing its part to help our businesses and their employees stay relevant in this ever-changing industry and local, thriving economic landscape. Reinvesting in local businesses like Spectrum Brands and enabling their employees to have the training and resources they need to be successful is one major key to the continued growth of our County’s economy.”

“Retraining for the jobs of the 21st Century is vital to our economy,” said Senator John Edwards. “I would like to congratulate Spectrum Brands as it invests in the new economy by retraining its employees through Virginia Jobs Investment Program to stay ahead of the competition. This is great news for the New River Valley.”

“Spectrum Brands has been a vital part of Blacksburg and the New River Valley for over two decades,” said Delegate Joseph Yost. “The company’s decision to invest $7.28 million and retrain their employees on new equipment is great news for Montgomery County. I want to thank Spectrum Brands for its continued trust in and commitment to the Commonwealth and enhancing job opportunities for our citizens.”

About Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc.

Spectrum Brands Holdings (NYSE: SPB), a member of the Russell 1000 Index, is a global and diversified consumer products company and a leading supplier of consumer batteries, residential locksets, residential builders’ hardware, plumbing, shaving and grooming products, personal care products, small household appliances, specialty pet supplies, lawn and garden and home pest control products, personal insect repellents and auto care products. For more information, visit www.spectrumbrands.com.

Office of the Governor

Brian Coy

(804) 225-4260

Brian.Coy@governor.virginia.gov

Virginia Economic Development Partnership

Suzanne Clark

(804) 545-5806

Sclark@yesvirginia.org

Spectrum Brands

Connie Caldwell

(314) 683-2460

connie.caldwell@spectrumbrands.com

About Us:

Virginia’s New River Valley is a vibrant community that’s home to two state universities, Virginia Tech and Radford University, and a diverse industry base ranging from large international corporations to small technology startups. The region is designated the Blacksburg-Christiansburg Radford Metropolitan Statistical Area and encompasses the counties of Floyd, Giles, Montgomery, Pulaski and the city of Radford.

The New River Valley Economic Development Alliance is a public/private, not-for-profit organization whose mission is to market the New River Valley, to foster job creation, facilitate new investment and to improve the quality of life in the region.

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Governor McAuliffe Announces Grupo Phoenix to Create 145 New Jobs in Pulaski County

Company to invest $48.7 million to expand manufacturing operation for third time

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: April 12, 2017

Commonwealth of Virginia Office of Governor Terry McAuliffe

PULASKI – Governor Terry McAuliffe today announced that Grupo Phoenix, a manufacturer of rigid packaging containers for the global food and beverage industry, will invest $48.7 million to expand its subsidiary manufacturing operation, Phoenix Packaging Operations, LLC, in Pulaski County. Virginia successfully competed against Arizona and Mexico for the project, which will create 145 new jobs. Governor McAuliffe and other Virginia officials met with the Grupo Phoenix leadership during an August 2016 trade and marketing mission to Colombia. Grupo Phoenix established its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Pulaski County in 2010. This project represents the company’s third expansion, bringing its investment in the operation to $106.2 million and a total of 585 new jobs.

“Grupo Phoenix is a valuable employer that is creating new, quality jobs that necessitate critical skills of the 21st century, and we are honored to boast this global business on our corporate roster,” said Governor McAuliffe, speaking at the announcement. “Strengthening the advanced manufacturing sector is a key component of our mission to diversify and build a new Virginia economy, and when a high-caliber manufacturer like Grupo Phoenix continues to invest in the Commonwealth, it is evidence that our efforts are working.”

“After meetings and discussions both here and in Bogotá, I am pleased to congratulate Grupo Phoenix and Pulaski County on another outstanding expansion,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Todd Haymore. “Grupo Phoenix’s investment is strengthening Virginia’s standing in the growing packaging industry which has created more than 6,600 jobs and over $3.9 billion in capital investment in Virginia since 2007. The New River Valley provides an incredibly strong labor pool, competitive business climate and strategic access to major interstates—all factors that will undoubtedly promote Phoenix’s continued success in the Commonwealth.”

Phoenix Packaging Operations, LLC, is a subsidiary of Grupo Phoenix. Headquartered in Bogotá, Columbia, Phoenix Packaging was established in 1999 through the integration of several industry-leading companies in Colombia, Mexico, the Southern Cone, and Venezuela. With sales in over 30 countries, Grupo Phoenix is one of the largest packaging manufacturing conglomerates in Latin America, dedicated to the creation, design and manufacturing of rigid packaging and food service disposable products.

“Grupo Phoenix evaluated various location options to build upon its future in the United States and chose Virginia due to a variety of factors, including a central location that allows us to be within 400 miles of 80 percent of the U.S. East Coast population; the ability to negotiate electricity at a competitive rate; access to rail transport, which reduces our logistics; a motivated labor force; support from the local colleges and universities to assist us with training specialized technical jobs; and the accessibility and unwavering support of the government to work together within the industry to create jobs,” said Grupo Phoenix CEO Alberto Peisach.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pulaski County and the New River Valley Economic Development Alliance to secure the project for Virginia. Governor McAuliffe approved a $600,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist the County with the project. The Governor also approved a $1 million performance-based grant from the Virginia Investment Partnership (VIP) program, an incentive available to existing companies. Grupo Phoenix will also receive benefits from the Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone Grant Program, and is eligible to receive funding from the Rail Industrial Access Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation. The company is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, and funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program. “Pulaski County is proud to be home to Phoenix Packaging and its cutting-edge manufacturing processes, and we are so very thankful for its demonstrated commitment to this community and its workforce through its sustained growth of new jobs and capital investments,” stated Jonathan Sweet, County Administrator. “The Board of Supervisors has made it a priority for Pulaski County to become the center of international business and the advanced-manufacturing hub of Southwest Virginia, and with the success of this project, continued assistance and support from the Commonwealth, and further results from our world-class economic development team, we are well on our way to realizing this county’s full potential.”

“It is always good news when a Virginia-based company chooses to reinvest here and does so, in part, because of the benefits it gets by moving its cargo across The Port of Virginia,” said John Reinhart, CEO and Executive Director of the Virginia Port Authority. “Phoenix Packaging is unique because it is a current port user that supplies packaging for other port customers as well. We welcome the opportunity to grow our partnership with this company by serving as its international trade gateway. Phoenix Packaging is growing and the Commonwealth will benefit as a result.”

“The expansion of Phoenix Packaging is a Southwest Virginia success story and is a reflection of the economic potential in our region,” said Congressman Morgan Griffith. “I am proud of Phoenix Packaging Operations, LLC, and its local workforce, for their commitment to Southwest Virginia and their contributions to our local economy.”

“I’m glad to see the expansion of Phoenix Packaging Operations in Pulaski,” said Delegate Nick Rush. “Job growth like this in Southwest Virginia is greatly appreciated.”

  Office of the Governor Contact: Brian Coy (804) 225-4260 Brian.Coy@governor.virginia.gov   Virginia Economic Development Partnership Contact: Suzanne Clark (804) 545-5806 Sclark@yesvirginia.org   Grupo Phoenix Carlos Tapias (540) 307-4050 carlos.tapias@grupophoenix.com

About Us:

Virginia’s New River Valley is a vibrant community that’s home to two state universities, Virginia Tech and Radford University, and a diverse industry base ranging from large international corporations to small technology startups. The region is designated the Blacksburg-Christiansburg Radford Metropolitan Statistical Area and encompasses the counties of Floyd, Giles, Montgomery, Pulaski and the city of Radford.

The New River Valley Economic Development Alliance is a public/private, not-for-profit organization whose mission is to market the New River Valley, to foster job creation, facilitate new investment and to improve the quality of life in the region.

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Business Announcements Inmotion Ribbon Cutting

NRV a top 30 “Leading Location” for new and expanding businesses

Date:  June 15, 2016

New River Valley, VA – The New River Valley is one of the hottest places in America for new and expanding business, according to Area Development. The magazine recently released its ranking of the top 100 Leading Locations in the U.S. for 2016.

The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford metropolitan statistical area (MSA), encompassing the entire New River Valley, ranked No. 30 overall and No. 12 among mid-sized metros with populations between 160,000 to 600,000. The New River Valley was one of only two metros in Virginia designated a Leading Location. Richmond, VA made the list at No. 68 overall.

In its sixth year, the Leading Locations for 2016 rankings analyzed economic and workforce data for 394 MSAs to determine recent and long-term economic vitality as well as each metros capacity to support business growth. The four primary indicators used to compile the rankings included Prime Workforce, Economic Strength, Year-Over-Year Growth, and Five Year Growth.

Prime Workforce helped propel the New River Valley to its high overall ranking. The region ranked No. 4 overall; No. 2 among mid-sized metros. A high ranking in Prime Workforce was attributed to an area’s strong and growing nucleus of well-educated and qualified 18- to 44-year-olds in the workforce.

The availability of a qualified workforce was one of the leading indicators included in the Leading Locations ranking. Area Development indicated that when choosing a place to locate or expand, executives generally prefer to pick a place with a solid pipeline of potential employees that will allow the company to hit the ground running and support future growth.

College communities were well represented among the Top 10 Prime Workforce locations. Area Development found this to be “no surprise” because many graduates choose to join the workforce after graduation and college towns tend to be hotbeds of innovation.

Virginia’s New River Valley is no exception to this finding. The region benefits from not one, but two universities – Virginia Tech and Radford University – and an exceptional community college – New River Community College. With approximately 45,000 students, these institutions provide a steady pipeline of talent for companies in the New River Valley to draw from. Virginia Tech, a top 40 research university, is also a major catalyst for the region’s growing technology sector.

Governor McAuliffe Announces $2.125 Million Camrett Logistics Investment in Pulaski County

Camrett Logistics to expand its operation in Pulaski, add 38 new jobs in New River Valley

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: December 11, 2015

Commonwealth of Virginia Office of Governor Terry McAuliffe

RICHMOND – Governor Terry McAuliffe announced today that Camrett Logistics Inc., a full service third party logistics (3PL) company that serves Virginia and the surrounding region, will invest $2.125 million to expand its operation in Pulaski County. The project will create 38 new jobs.

Speaking about today’s announcement, Governor McAuliffe said, “Camrett Logistics is a valued Virginia business established in 1995 that has grown to six locations in the Commonwealth. This impressive company offers material solutions to manufacturers and distribution companies, a vital service to help us grow our advanced manufacturing industry.  Growing this important sector will help us diversify and build a new Virginia economy, and this expansion will bring much-needed jobs to Pulaski County.”

“We are very encouraged by the addition of new jobs in Pulaski County,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Maurice Jones.  “Advanced manufacturing continues to be one of the industries with great growth prospects in the Commonwealth.  This expansion is a testament to the superior workforce, business climate and infrastructure in Southwest Virginia, and we look forward to continuing this great partnership with Camrett.

Started by Collin Peel in 1995 with one straight truck and a 10,000-square-foot warehouse in Rural Retreat, Virginia, Camrett has expanded to warehouses and over-the-road transportation in more than three states. Camrett Logistics offers warehousing, distribution, consolidation, kitting, transportation, and a handful of other logistics services.

“We are excited to be expanding into the Radford community,” said Collin Peel, President of Camrett Logistics Inc. “The old AT&T building (as it was known) is a well-built facility that needs some tender loving care. We have started replacing parts of the roof, removing all the old lighting and duct work and replacing them with the latest high-efficiency lighting and gas powered heaters. The employees that have joined us here in Radford have been truly amazing—start-up operations are often chaotic, and these new employees did what was necessary to keep the customer happy. Our goal is to have the full facility 100 percent warehouse-ready by March 2016. We will seek local manufactures and new ones wishing to expand their operations into the south side of the building. The full facility has nearly 600,000 square feet of space, 27 dock doors and an abundance of offices available. Camrett, as a whole, manages over 1.4 million square feet in Southwest Virginia.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with Pulaski County to secure the project for Virginia. The company is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. Camrett will also receive benefits from the Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone Grant Program. Additional funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program, administered by VEDP.

“It is exciting for our county to have a once-closed manufacturing facility open and employing Pulaski County residents, and even better is that it will be occupied by a company that is already in Pulaski County—Camrett Logistics,”said Joe Sheffey, Chairman of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors. “We are excited that Camrett will expand their operations in our county and add to our local economy. The 38 jobs that will be created in Pulaski County represent 38 families that will contribute in a positive way to our community.”

“A strong logistics network requires many partners working together to support the import and export needs of Virginia’s manufacturers and distributors,” said John Reinhart, CEO and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority.“This strategic decision by Camrett Logistics to reinvest in Virginia strengthens the Commonwealth’s international logistics network, reinforces Virginia’s position as business location, creates jobs for Pulaski County and contributes to the growth of The Port of Virginia. Camrett is expanding and we are pleased that the port has a role in the company’s future.”

I am pleased to learn that Camrett Logistics’ investment in Pulaski County will result in 38 much-needed jobs and a vital boost to our local economy,” said Delegate Nick Rush. “I commend the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the local government representatives of Pulaski County for their efforts in making this project possible. I am grateful for Camrett Logistics’ commitment to the New River Valley and hope for its continued success for years to come.

Office of the Governor

Contact: Brian Coy

Email: Brian.Coy@governor.virginia.gov 

Virginia Economic Development Partnership

Contact: Suzanne Clark

Phone: (804) 545-5806

Email: sclark@yesvirginia.org

Camrett Logistics

Contact: Collin Peel

Phone: (276) 625-8103

E-mail: cpeel@camrett.com

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