Weidmüller Group announced Apr. 11 that it will invest $16.4 million to expand its facility in Richmond, Va. The project will 24,000 square feet of engineering and production space, and allowing the company to meet growing demand in North America and strengthen its supply chain. The expansion is expected to create more than 100 new jobs. Weidmüller has operated in Virginia for more than 50 years.
“We want ‘Made in America’ to mean ‘Made in Virginia,’ and Weidmüller Group has been manufacturing its products for more than five decades in Chesterfield County,” said Gov. Glenn Youngkin. “Its longevity and continued investment are a powerful testament to the advantages a Virginia location offers international companies seeking growth in North American markets, and we look forward to Weidmüller’s continued success.”
Bernd Schröder, president of Weidmüller USA, added that, “Weidmüller’s expansion in the U.S. cements our commitment to bring engineering and manufacturing closer to our North American partners and customers. By deepening our partnerships with Chesterfield County and the State of Virginia, we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to expand in a state known for a talented workforce, strong logistical benefits with access to Virginia ports, and strategically located to best service our customers. As a recipient of the coveted ‘Richmond Top Workplaces’ award over the past two years, we’re excited to continue that trend while growing our workforce in the Greater Richmond area.”
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with Chesterfield County to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $488,450 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Chesterfield County with the project. The company is eligible to receive benefits from the Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone Grant Program.
Support for Weidmüller’s job creation will be provided through the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, a workforce initiative created by VEDP in collaboration with the Virginia Community College System and other higher education partners, with funding support from the governor’s administration and the Virginia General Assembly. Launched in 2019, the program accelerates new facility start-ups through the direct delivery of recruitment and training services that are fully customized to a company’s unique products, processes, equipment, standards, and culture. All program services are provided at no cost to qualified new and expanding companies as an incentive for job creation.
