News Articles
Part II: The Private Sector
While the state, regional, and local governments worked together on the Tranlin project, they also had some help from the private sector. Timmons Group, an engineering firm, had expertise and a unique perspective that proved valuable for the deal.
Tranlin operated large-scale manufacturing facilities, an area Timmons Group knew well. Timmons Group was then able to communicate with Tranlin’s technical team in China to understand the facilities’ requirements and ensure that the James River Site could meet or exceed these needs. Additionally, Timmons Group prepared detailed schematic alternatives so that Tranlin representatives could picture their new Chesterfield facility.
Timmons Group also accompanied Chesterfield County to China. The trip was intended to provide them with a better understanding of Tranlin’s operations and how the facilities could best be implemented at the James River Site. Chesterfield chose to bring Timmons with them to have two additional perspectives: that of a technical advisor, and also that of a Chesterfield-based business. After the group returned to the U.S., they created a more refined project layout to present to Tranlin on their return trip.
“Timmons Group is proud to have partnered with Chesterfield County and the Commonwealth of Virginia on the recent trip to China,” Said Tim Davey, principal of Timmons Group. “We feel that another professional set of eyes and ears helped the County and Commonwealth gain a better understanding of the China operation. That first-hand experience also helped convince our team that the James River Industrial Park was the perfect location for the U.S. expansion.”
Timmons and Chesterfield visit Tranlin’s Chinese facilities
Check out the Chesterfield Business blog next week for more stories about our projects!
Part I: The Government Side of the Deal
The Tranlin investment announced on Wednesday marked a milestone in Virginia history. With most groundbreaking events, a single party cannot be held responsible for the entire accomplishment. This project was no different.
Various departments from the state, regional, and local governments worked together to make Tranlin happen.
It all began with a connection to the University of Virginia that generated a state lead for the project. From there, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership asked for land and site opportunities that met the prospect’s requirements from three regions: the Danville area, Hampton Roads and Greater Richmond. Sites in Chesterfield and Henrico counties were submitted for consideration in Greater Richmond.
The Greater Richmond Partnership pitched these sites, along with Danville and Hampton Roads presenting their opportunities, to Tranlin representatives on multiple occasions during the fall of 2013 and the early winter of 2014.
The Greater Richmond Partnership then worked with the two local economic development offices in Chesterfield and Henrico to coordinate site visits in September and October 2013.
Tranlin chose Chesterfield’s James River Industrial Park as their preferred site in December 2013. Chesterfield County took command at this point, handling any questions or requirements Tranlin had before closing the deal in June 2014.
Virginia State Capitol Building
Check out the Chesterfield Business blog next week for Part II: The Private Sector’s Role!
Shandong Tranlin Paper Co., Ltd. will invest $2 billion and create 2,000 jobs in first U.S. advanced manufacturing operation
Project represents largest Chinese greenfield economic development project in U.S.
Governor Terry McAuliffe announced today that Shandong Tranlin Paper Co., Ltd., a leading Chinese pulp and paper company formerly known as Shandong Tralin Paper Co., Ltd., will invest $2 billion over five years to establish its first U.S. advanced manufacturing operation in Chesterfield County. The new manufacturing facility in the paper and fertilizer sectors will be located on an 850-acre campus in the James River Industrial Center. Virginia successfully competed against several other states for the project, which will create 2,000 new jobs by 2020.
“An investment of this magnitude, with the creation of 2,000 new jobs by 2020, represents the largest Chinese capital investment project in the U.S.” – Governor McAuliffe
Speaking about today’s announcement, Governor McAuliffe said, “An investment of this magnitude, with the creation of 2,000 new jobs by 2020, represents the largest Chinese capital investment project in the U.S. This project is transformational for the economy of Chesterfield County and the surrounding region. Advanced manufacturing jobs are the heart of a strong and growing 21st century economy, and symbolize the economic recovery taking place across the nation. The opportunity to welcome a leading, global company’s first U.S. manufacturing operation and simultaneously strengthen Virginia’s relationship with China is invaluable. Economic development is a team effort, and it is the collaboration of the entire team that helped to convince Tranlin that Virginia is the best site for its U.S. operation. We are therefore partnering with the Major Employment and Investment Commission, and are confident this project will bring international attention to the thriving advanced manufacturing industry in the Commonwealth.
“The Tranlin operation in Chesterfield County represents a project of historic proportions for Virginia.” – Maurice Jones, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade
“The Tranlin operation in Chesterfield County represents a project of historic proportions for Virginia,” said Maurice Jones, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. “This global pulp and paper company is a national leading R&D Center for straw-based pulp and paper in China, among many other awards for innovation and invention, and will enter the U.S. market with its new paper and fertilizer manufacturing facility in Chesterfield County. The new 850-acre campus offers the potential for Tranlin to eventually produce its full product lines and continue to grow its operation and customer base while using Virginia’s natural resources.”
“Tranlin represents a tremendous opportunity for Virginia’s corn and small grain producers by creating a lucrative new market for agricultural residuals that are typically left in the field.” – Todd Haymore, Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry
“As we work to grow and diversify our economy, it is vital that we continue to build relationships with our largest agricultural and forestry trade partner, China, through both exports into Chinese markets and Chinese investments in business ventures here,” said Todd Haymore, Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry. “Tranlin represents a tremendous opportunity for Virginia’s corn and small grain producers by creating a lucrative new market for agricultural residuals that are typically left in the field. Based on the agricultural supply chain opportunities associated with the project, the economic benefit to farmers in this region alone could exceed $50 million per year once the project is complete and operating at full capacity. I look forward to working with Tranlin as they begin to procure needed agricultural products from our growers, to help them succeed and continue to expand their investment in Virginia.”
Based on analysis performed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and Virginia Tech Cooperative Extension, the economic benefits of this operation will be felt throughout the agriculture sector, from new demand for agricultural equipment, to new jobs for direct and indirect agricultural jobs. In addition, this project will help preserve farmland by providing farmers a new opportunity to derive additional economic return from their land and equipment, creating positive economic pressure to maintain it in farming use. The harvest of straw in the spring and corn stalks in the fall for use by Tranlin will be two new cash crops for Virginia producers, in addition to other fibrous products from the surrounding area. From an environmental standpoint, the harvest of these agricultural residuals is compatible with the Chesapeake Bay-friendly no-till crop production practices these producers are already using. In addition, Tranlin prides itself on a process that leads to an environmentally friendly effluent, resulting in the discharge of quality, clean water.
Founded in 1976 and based in Liaocheng, China, Shandong Tranlin Paper Co., Ltd. is centered on the pulp and paper industry, with an annual productivity of 400,000 tons of refined pulp, 700,000 tons of machine-made paper, 400,000 tons of organic fertilizers, and 2.4 billion food and medical packaging boxes. The company has established a diversified product structure centered on the natural products and a marketing network in accordance with demands of internationalization. The main products, with more than 100 varieties and five categories, include refined natural pulp, natural culture paper, natural household paper, food and medical packaging box and organic fertilizers. The products are sold in more than 30 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions of China, and some products have been exported to the United States, Europe, Japan and South Korea.
“We are pleased that Virginia and Chesterfield County will be the site of our first U.S. advanced manufacturing operation.” – Mr. Hongfa Li, Chairman and President, Shandong Tranlin Paper Co., Ltd.
“We are pleased that Virginia and Chesterfield County will be the site of our first U.S. advanced manufacturing operation,” said Mr. Hongfa Li, Chairman and President, Shandong Tranlin Paper Co., Ltd. “Virginia has abundant resources of agricultural stalks, power and water supply, manpower, and a strong transportation system—all necessary tools that guarantee Tranlin’s future development. More importantly, the Virginia team’s flexibility, patience, teamwork, cooperation, and above all, passion for foreign investment, factored into our decision. After an in-depth feasibility study that occurred over the past year, we have all the reasons to say “Yes, Virginia.”
“We are very excited about joining the welcoming community of Virginia and Chesterfield County.” – Jerry Z Peng, Chairman and CEO of Tranlin, Inc.
“We are very excited about joining the welcoming community of Virginia and Chesterfield County,” said Jerry Z Peng, Chairman and CEO of Tranlin, Inc., Tranlin group’s recently established US entity. “We are even more excited about the opportunity to apply our innovative technologies in building an industry-leading production base in central Virginia. We are confident this will not only provide U.S. consumers with clean and eco-friendly paper products, but also serve U.S. agricultural interests and home owners with all-natural and highly effective organic fertilizers.” Mr. Peng also noted his ties to Virginia, having received his MBA from UVA’s Darden School and currently serving on its foundation board.
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Chesterfield County, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Greater Richmond Partnership, Dominion Virginia Power, the Timmons Group, and the Virginia Port Authority to secure the project for Virginia.
Governor McAuliffe approved a $5 million grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Chesterfield County with the project. Funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program. The company may be eligible to receive a Major Employment and Investment (MEI) Project custom performance grant, subject to approval by the MEI Project Approval Commission. An MEI project is defined under current law as a regional economic development project in which a private entity is expected to make a capital investment exceeding $250 million in the Commonwealth and to create more than 400 new full-time jobs. As part of its review, the Commission may endorse certain incentive packages for approval by the General Assembly.
“What a great and historical day for Virginia, the region, and Chesterfield County.” – Jay Stegmaier, County Administrator for Chesterfield County.
“What a great and historical day for Virginia, the region, and Chesterfield County,” said Jay Stegmaier, County Administrator for Chesterfield County. “We have worked diligently within the county, and with our partners at the state, regional, and local levels, to build an environment that is attractive for this record breaking announcement of $2 billion with 2,000 new, quality jobs. It really shows the value of our combined efforts. And, this announcement comes from a leading company that manufactures great products while staying focused on the environment, recycling, and sustainability. The scope and reach of this project is enormous and has significant impacts on both the business and agriculture communities. We enthusiastically welcome Tranlin as the newest international member of our corporate family.”
“It is very fitting that our county was founded on an international investment and now, over 400 years later, we are still celebrating why we continue to be a great location for companies from around the world.” – Jim Holland, Chairman of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors.
“This announcement is the largest in the history of Chesterfield County,” said Jim Holland, Chairman of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors. “It is very fitting that our county was founded on an international investment and now, over 400 years later, we are still celebrating why we continue to be a great location for companies from around the world. Welcome Tranlin, to Chesterfield County. We look forward to your continued growth and success.”
“The Major Employment and Investment (MEI) Project Approval Commission was established in 2009 to help Virginia better compete for major economic development projects that require General Assembly approval for incentive packages,” said Senator Walter Stosch and Delegate Chris Jones, members of the MEI Project Approval Commission. “The Tranlin project is significant for Virginia and is critically important to win. These jobs and related revenues are important to our ability to fund education, health care and other core priorities. The MEI Commission is fully supportive of this transformational project and we are pleased that the MEI Commission could play a role in ensuring that the Commonwealth of Virginia is home to Tranlin’s first U.S. operation.”
Location of the 850-acre Tranlin Campus
RICHMOND, Va. – Philip Morris USA (PM USA) today announced it intends to invest over $50 million to establish a tobacco leaf storage warehouse complex on 118 acres in Chester, Virginia. PM USA will lease four buildings totaling 1 million square feet off of Bermuda Hundred Road in the Meadowville area of Chesterfield County.
PM USA is developing the new warehouse complex to store raw materials used in making its tobacco products. The warehousing complex will complement PM USA’s existing leaf storage warehouses in the Richmond area.
“This new PM USA facility will be a welcome addition to our corporate community and once again indicates Chesterfield’s commitment to providing a business friendly environment,” said James Holland, Chairman of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors.
“We are pleased to continue investing in the Richmond area, which is home to our headquarters and state-of-the-art manufacturing center,” said Cliff Fleet, President and CEO of Philip Morris USA. “This strategic Chesterfield County location will allow us convenient access to our manufacturing facilities and complement our existing storage and production activities.”
PM USA is owned by Altria Group, Inc. (Altria) (NYSE:MO), a Fortune 200 company headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. Altria, along with Philip Morris USA and its other companies employ about 4,000 Virginians at six facilities throughout the region. Since 1983, PM USA has been the largest cigarette manufacturer in the United States. More than 50 percent of the cigarettes produced in the nation are made in its manufacturing center in south Richmond. More than $1 billion dollars flow through Virginia every year from Altria’s companies in the form of taxes, small business revenue, donations and income for thousands of Virginians.
“Altria is one of the top 10 largest employers in the area and we are pleased that they found Chesterfield County to be the right place for their continued investment,” said Jay Stegmaier, County Administrator of Chesterfield County.
Chesterfield Economic Development, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Greater Richmond Partnership, Seefried Industrial Development, Timmons Group, and CBRE assisted PM USA in the site selection process.
Contacts:
For Chesterfield Economic Development: Garrett Hart, ghart@chesterfieldbusiness.com (804) 318-8561
For PM USA: Jeff Caldwell, jeffrey.j.caldwell@altria.com (804) 484-8897
International headquarters and production facility will be in North Chesterfield, Virginia.
NORTH CHESTERFIELD, VIRGINIA – May 22, 2014 – Avail Vapor, LLC, a Richmond-based company that is an industry leader in the rapidly expanding vapor and e-juice industry, has purchased a 37,515 square foot facility in Chesterfield County. It is located on four acres in the Southport Office Park and the building combines multiple office spaces as well an expansive production space. The projected capital investment will be $5 million with 60 employees.
James Xu, founding partner of Avail Vapor, says “We are excited to begin the renovation for our new Avail headquarters immediately. We will be converting this space in the coming weeks to house a new, state of the art, pharma-white room laboratory, and a production facility for the exclusive production of Avail Premium E Juice. This new facility and custom line will produce 8,000 bottles an hour while maintaining the quality, purity, consistency and flavor that Avail has come to stand for.” The new facility also will house the distribution facility for all Avail stores as well as the executive and support staff for Avail corporate stores located currently in Virginia and Maryland.
Avail currently operates in nine locations and has 11 more under construction or lease in the Mid-Atlantic. Mr. Xu adds, “This location also will serve as a training facility for Avail associates and franchise services in the future.” He added that this location will house a new Avail retail store adjacent to the lab that will enable customers to view the juice production through glass walls.
“We are very pleased that Avail Vapor chose Chesterfield County,” said County Administrator Jay Stegmaier. “It’s rewarding to see entrepreneurship flourish and the conversion of this facility into a unique headquarters and production facility is a testament to our strong business climate.”
Mr. Xu also noted that the assistance and support of the Chesterfield Department of Economic Development and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership was instrumental in Avail’s search for its new headquarters.
Contacts:
Avail: Susan Keeton, susank@availvapor.com
CED: Garrett Hart, ghart@chesterfieldbusiness.com
Wegmans Food Markets to be Anchor Tenant for the Stonehenge Village Development in Midlothian
Marchetti Properties, LLC announced Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. will be the anchor tenant for Stonehenge Village, an entitled retail project located on the eastern edge of the Village of Midlothian in the 12500 block of Midlothian Turnpike.
“We have long-viewed Wegmans as the ideal anchor for Stonehenge Village”, said Bobby Marchetti, one of the principals of Marchetti Properties. “Wegmans epitomizes the highest of quality in everything the company does—from the architecture of their stores to the way they treat their customers and their employees—and we could not be more pleased that Wegmans chose to develop at Stonehenge Village.”
The Midlothian Wegmans will have a design similar to this one built in northern Virginia last year.
“We are delighted to announce our plans to open a store in Stonehenge Village, and excited to finally be able to respond to the many requests we’ve had to come to the Richmond area,” says Ralphs Uttaro, Wegmans senior vice president of real estate. “I know that we will bring a unique shopping experience to the market that delivers on our promise of incredible customer service, the best ingredients, restaurant-quality prepared foods, and consistent low prices.”
Stonehenge Village is a master-planned retail development that will contain approximately 230,000 square feet of retail uses, including a grocery store, restaurants and other shops. The project is located in a well-established retail corridor and is centrally located to serve the Midlothian community and the broader, highly suburbanized northwest portion of Chesterfield County.
“We have always envisioned Stonehenge Village as a high quality development that will complement the Midlothian Village and surrounding area. With Wegmans and the other interested retailers with whom we have had active discussions, our vision is becoming a reality,” said Marchetti.
County leaders are applauding the attraction of another highly-respected retail name to Chesterfield.
“We are very happy that Wegmans is coming to Chesterfield County. Wegmans will provide an exciting and unique grocery and dining experience. In addition to the experience, Wegmans brings a strong commitment to its customers, community and employees,” said Jay Stegmaier, Chesterfield County Administrator
“We are very pleased that Wegmans will be the latest addition to the Midlothian corridor’s upscale retail offerings. As one of the “100 best companies to work for” we are excited about the jobs this will create for our citizens,” said Jim Holland, Chairman, Chesterfield Board of Supervisors.
Welcome to Wegmans Video
About Wegmans Food Markets
Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. is an 83-store supermarket chain with stores in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and Massachusetts. The family-owned company, founded in 1916, is recognized as an industry leader and innovator. Wegmans has been named one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” by FORTUNE magazine for 17 consecutive years. In 2014, Wegmans ranked #12 on the list.
About Marchetti Properties
Marchetti Properties is a family-owned retail center developer and owner in the Greater Richmond area.
~ Company to create 50 new jobs and retain 130 jobs ~
27 Feb 2014
NORTH CHESTERFIELD – Governor Terry McAuliffe announced in North Chesterfield today that Evonik Industries, one of the world’s leading specialty chemicals companies, will invest $15 million to relocate and expand its Business and Innovation Center in Chesterfield County. The company will maintain its manufacturing operation in the City of Hopewell. Virginia successfully competed against New Jersey and Indiana for the project, which will create 50 new jobs over five years and retain 130 jobs.
Speaking at today’s announcement, Governor McAuliffe said, “Evonik’s decision to stay in Virginia is a win-win for the state and for the Greater Richmond region. Evonik Corporation’s expansion of its research and development facilities in Chesterfield County and the creation of 50 new jobs is a testament to Virginia’s ability to attract innovative and growing companies to the Commonwealth and will contribute to the long-term economic sustainability of the community.”
“The addition of 50 new high-tech and high-paying jobs in Chesterfield County is great news for the region,” said Maurice Jones, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. “As Evonik expands its footprint in Virginia, welook forward to continuing a long corporate partnership between the company and the Commonwealth.”
Evonik, the creative industrial group from Germany, is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. Profitable growth and a sustained increase in the value of the company form the heart of Evonik’s corporate strategy. Its activities focus on the key megatrends health, nutrition, resource efficiency, and globalization. Evonik benefits specifically from its innovative prowess and integrated technology platforms. The company is active in over 100 countries around the world.
“Virginia is a great place to do business,” said Dr. Reinhold Brand, senior vice president and general manager of Evonik’s Consumer Specialties business unit in North America. “The state is known as very business-friendly. The region has highly-educated workforce. Talent from all over the world can be attracted to work and live here in Virginia. And it was extremely easy to work with the Governor and his economic development team. Our employees are happy to be in Virginia—and very excited about our bright future with the new facility.”
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Chesterfield County and the Greater Richmond Partnership to secure the project for Virginia. Former Governor Bob McDonnell approved a $500,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Chesterfield County with the project. Through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program, the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity will provide funding and services to support the company’s recruitment and training activities.
“We are proud to welcome Evonik to our corporate family,” said Jim Holland, Chairman of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors. “As a world leader in the manufacturing and developing of specialty chemicals, we are extremely pleased that they have chosen Chesterfield County for their new Business and Innovation Center. Research and development is one of our target growth markets and this announcement certainly fits well into our economic base. We look forward to their continued growth.”
Medline Industries, Inc. headquartered in Mundelein, Illinois, is expanding its distribution presence in Chesterfield County, Virginia, by building a new 400,000 square-foot facility in Meadowville Technology Park. Medline currently operates a distribution center in southern Chesterfield County. The company currently has 25 employees in the county, and will invest $21 million and create 25 additional positions with this project.
Medline is the largest privately held manufacturer and distributor of healthcare supplies in the United States, providing more than 350,000 products that serve the entire continuum of care. Their innovative products and programs can be found in most hospitals, extended-care facilities, surgery centers, physicians’ offices, homecare dealers, home health agencies and retail outlets. Their customers depend upon Medline to provide support during times of need. When Hurricane Sandy struck the east coast, Medline provided vital medical supplies. When earthquakes ravaged Haiti and Japan, Medline responded with materials and logistical support.
“We are very excited that Medline has selected Chesterfield County for their new distribution center,” said Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Chairman Dorothy Jaeckle. “The fact that they are one of our existing businesses and again chose Chesterfield makes it all the better. The company will benefit from the outstanding location that Meadowville offers for all of their logistical operations.”
“Medline Industries is a valued member of our corporate family,” said Jay Stegmaier, county administrator for Chesterfield County. “To have an international corporate leader in the healthcare industry continue to commit to Chesterfield County is quite a testament. We are proud to have them in Chesterfield County and look forward to their continued success.” Chesterfield County worked with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the Greater Richmond Partnership to secure the project for Chesterfield.
Medline’s history dates back more than a century to when A.L. Mills started the Northwestern Garment Factory in 1910, manufacturing aprons for the Chicago stockyards. Today, Medline is a $5 billion dollar global company grown from humble beginnings that continues to be successful because of its entrepreneurial spirit and small-business values. Medline has 37 distribution centers in North America and 47 throughout the world. They employ more than 9,000 worldwide with operations in more than 25 countries.
Tina Shreve, Chesterfield Economic Development (804) 318-8550, shrevet@chesterfieldbusiness.com
Capital One Financial Corporation has completed construction of a $150 million data center in Meadowville in Chesterfield County, Virginia.
The Virginia data center is part of Capital One’s core IT infrastructure that incorporates new technologies to better meet customer needs. The project will create at least 50 new jobs.
In partnership with the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce and the Chesterfield Business Council, Chesterfield County honors local companies annually that contribute to the county’s economy and its residents through the First Choice Business Awards. The Board of Supervisors will formally recognize all winners at their August 28, 2013 meeting.
The following are the 2013 First Choice Business Award Winners: Environmental Stewardship Award – B&D Chimney Services, Community Impact Award – Haley Buick GMC, Innovation Impact Award – Networking Technologies and Support, Building Healthy Communities Award – HCA Virginia Workplace Wellness, Small Business Excellence Award – Commonwealth Photography, and the 2013 First Choice Business of the Year was awarded to Holiday Inn Koger Conference Center. This award is designed to recognize a Chesterfield County business, which has been a leader in terms of overall impact to the County.
The winners were chosen by a selection committee, which consists of business leaders and other business owners for their community and business knowledge. The intent is to give recognition to businesses that consistently contribute to the local economy through employment, community service, or create and deliver products or services that are innovative to its customers. Other criteria include that a business is a leader in valuing its employees, and upholds the principles and standards of ethical business practices.
“The success and growth of our existing businesses is vital to our economy, and we are proud to recognize their contributions to the county,” said Dorothy Jaeckle, Chair of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors.
For more information on this year’s Celebrate Chesterfield Business! contact Tina Shreve at (804) 318-8550, or email at ShreveT@chesterfield.gov
Retail space in Phase 1 of Stonebridge is now available. The beautifully designed development already includes a brand new 123,000 square foot Kroger Marketplace store. That store is the largest in Virginia.
Four completed buildings offer available space ranging from 1,200 to 4,400 square feet. New tenants already committed to Stonebridge include the following: Qdoba Mexican Grill, SweetFrog Premium Yogurt, Sleepys The Mattress Professionals, Great Clips for Hair, Subway restaurant, Lee Nails and Virginia ABC store.
Additional information can be downloaded here.
The Richmond Real Estate Group (RREG) recognized Chesterfield County’s accomplishments in economic development at its annual Impact Award presentation and reception on Wednesday, May 15th. Ms. RoseMarie Bundy of Evolve Architecture and RREG board member presented the award to Mr. Will Davis, Director of Chesterfield Economic Development.
The RREG board selected Chesterfield based on the numerous successful projects within its borders over the past year including the Capital One Data Center, the Sabra expansion and R&D facility, the Uptown Alley entertainment complex, plus two other award finalists: the Greater Richmond Aquatic Partnership and the Amazon Fulfillment Center.
From a field of ten entries, the group selected four finalists that covered a broad spectrum of project types. The First National Bank Apartments historic preservation and restoration project in downtown Richmond was submitted by the designer, Commonwealth Architects. The Allianz Global Assistance headquarters project in Henrico County involved the restoration of 320,000 square feet. The project was designed and submitted by Evolve Architecture. The Aquatics Center in Chesterfield Country is a 54,000 square foot recreational facility that was constructed and submitted by Hourigan Construction. The Amazon Fulfillment Center, also in Chesterfield County, is a one million square foot building that was submitted by Timmons Group, the civil engineering firm for the project.
Also in attendance from the county were Ms. Dorothy Jaeckle, Chair of the Board of Supervisors; Mr. Steve Elswick, Vice Chair of the Board of Supervisors; Mr. Jay Stegmaier, County Administrator; Mr. Bill Dupler, Deputy County Administrator – Community Development; Mr. Garret Hart, Assistant Director of Economic Development; Ms. Karen Aylward, Assistant Director of Economic Development; and Mr. John Ruckert, Member – Economic Development Authority.
The Richmond Real Estate Group was formed in 1983 to promote commercial real estate development in the Richmond greater metropolitan area. The membership is comprised of professionals engaged in real estate development, investment, finance, sales, leasing, architecture, engineering and construction. Each year the group honors through its Impact Award the project or entity that had the greatest influence on Richmond area commercial real estate.
For additional information on RREG or the Impact Award, please contact Ms. RoseMarie Bundy at 804-649-9400, ext 11, or rosemarie@evolvearchitecture.com
“A Celebration of the Vine” is hosted by the Chesterfield County Chamber of Commerce in Chesterfield County Virginia. As a premier event for the county, it showcases Virginia wines, regional entertainment and community involvement from a cultural and economic standpoint. Having earned the reputation as a “class act” presentation, this successful event incorporates teamwork and volunteerism within the Chesterfield Chamber and the community. Chesterfield Economic Development is a proud sponsor of the event.
The Richmond-Times Dispatch is reporting Amazon is making new investments at its Chesterfield Fulfillment Center.
Online retailer Amazon.com is completing work this year at its Chesterfield County distribution center that will increase the plant’s inventory capacity, a regional director for the company said Tuesday.
The Seattle-based retailer, which opened two large distribution sites in the Richmond area in the fall, also is moving some of the part-time employees it hired during the holiday season into full-time work, said Tim Coates, regional director for Amazon’s fulfillment services.
By summer, “we will have doubled our ability to put inventory in” at the Chesterfield site, Coates told members of the Richmond Association for Business Economics. “We are also putting in more equipment. A lot of investments are happening in that building in Chesterfield.”
The work now occurring at the site includes adding equipment such as an inventory management system that was part of the original plan for the site but was not completed before the holiday shopping season rush, Coates said.
Amazon completed most of the work on the centers in Chesterfield and Dinwiddie counties last year, and the first products were shipped to customers by October.
Each centers is 1 million square feet — or each nearly as big as Short Pump Town Center — but they handle different types of products.
The Chesterfield warehouse ships high volumes of small items such as books and DVDs, Coates said, while the Dinwiddie facility handles larger items such as golf bags, stereos and kayaks.
The two centers employ more than 2,000 people, a spokeswoman said.
Amazon has been expanding its network of fulfillment centers nationwide to get products to its customers “as quickly as possible at the lowest possible price,” said Coates, who also manages Amazon’s Indianapolis fulfillment centers.
“We’re in the Richmond area because it is the best place to be for our customers,” said Coates, whose talk drew a sold-out crowd of 65 for the association’s monthly meeting at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond.
Richmond Times-Dispatch – March 6, 2013
jblackwell@timesdispatch.com (804) 775-8123
(c)2013 the Richmond Times-Dispatch (Richmond, Va.)
Visit the Richmond Times-Dispatch (Richmond, Va.) at www.timesdispatch.com
The Midlothian Exchange regional reporter, Jodi Deal, has posted an article about the presentation made by Economic Development Director, Will Davis, to the Chesterfield Business Council last week.
Will Davis had a busy 2012, and hopes 2013 will be just as action-packed.
As Chesterfield County’s Economic Development director, Davis got to make major announcements last year about plant expansions, data centers and other investments that created jobs.He helped celebrate the opening of one of the largest Kroger stores in the Mid-Atlantic region, saw a major new Amazon facility at Meadowville ship its first package, cheered the new Collegiate School Aquatics Center, and watched a new bowling alley grow in popularity.
Davis recounted 2012 successes at a Jan. 22 breakfast sponsored by the Chesterfield Business Council of the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce. He also shared with about 100 members of the county’s business community a snapshot of some of his department’s plans for this year.
Read the entire article online at the Midlothian Exchange >>>
You can also view the presentation below.
by Ivy Lamb
Located just south of Richmond, Chesterfield County beckons visitors with its rich history and wide-open spaces.
It boasts not only Virginia’s largest state park, but also the second-oldest English settlement in the U.S.
In 1611, English settlers traveled upriver from Jamestown and established the Citie of Henricus. They found the area occupied by the Powhatan Indians – tribe of the legendary Pocahontas. The Indian princess lived in Henricus and married Englishman John Rolfe, forging a treaty between the Powhatans and the English.
Today, Henricus Historical Park allows visitors to experience life in the reconstructed settlement. Explore the living-history museum’s 12 re-created colonial and Native American structures, including the New World’s first hospital. Costumed interpreters encourage visitors to try their hand at harvesting, cooking, and blacksmithing.
There’s much more to explore, though, thanks to the county’s long history – documented in detail from prehistoric times through the 20th century at the Chesterfield County Museum. Or get out and about at historic landmarks such as Falling Creek Ironworks, home to the first iron furnace, and Mid-Lothian Mines Park, site of the earliest coal-mining operation in the U.S.
Then get a taste of the area’s Southern charms by visiting one of the many historic homes. Eppington Plantation hosted Thomas Jefferson more than once. This Georgian-style manse was actually built by his in-laws, the Eppes. Today the Eppington Foundation keeps it well-preserved. Meanwhile, the Chesterfield
Historical Society of Virginia manages Magnolia Grange, another elegant, pre-Civil War home. The circa-1822 Federal-style plantation got its name from the circle of magnolias that once stood proudly on the front lawn.
Civil War buffs won’t be disappointed either. Some of the lesser-known but no less important battles occurred in Chesterfield County. Since Richmond served as the capital of the Confederacy, the surrounding land was an epicenter for fighting. Visit Drewry’s Bluff – located eight miles downriver from Richmond – to see the key defense point against Federal attacks from the James River. Then tour Bermuda Hundred, where Union and Confederate troops battled from 1864 through the end of the war.
No doubt its location between two rivers – the James and the Appomattox – helped make Chesterfield a hot spot throughout history, but today the location offers a wealth of recreational opportunities. Take a boat or fishing tour up the James, or visit the Presquile National Wildlife Refuge, a 1,329-acre island in the James River. Pocahontas State Park (the state’s largest) covers 7,724 pristine acres and has been ranked one the nation’s top ten campgrounds by Citysearch.
After a long day of sightseeing, relax with a concert at the park’s Heritage Amphitheater. Or take in a show at Swift Mill Creek Theater, housed in what’s believed to be the oldest grist mill in the U.S. Expect professional productions ranging from I Love a Piano: The Music of Irving Berlin to The Marvelous Wonderettes.
With so much to explore, you may not know where to begin. But the best way to travel Chesterfield County is simple – start in 1611 with the settlers in Henricus and work your way forward.
The Excellence in Virginia Government Awards (EVGA) are presented by VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs to celebrate the accomplishments of Virginians who have made distinctive contributions to the practice of government and to the well-being of our communities and our citizens. Now entering its eighth year, the EVGA has become a hallmark of excellence for both VCU and the commonwealth of Virginia.
At the award ceremony last week, Chesterfield County received the 2012 EVGA Innovation in Government Award for “My Business Starts Here“.
The Chesterfield County Department of Economic Development and the Chesterfield County Public Library combined forces in a unique partnership to develop and implement “My Business Starts Here,” a web-based portal with access to data and information for starting a small business in Chesterfield County.
Potential entrepreneurs can access accurate and specific information needed to facilitate starting a small business. The system is user-friendly and leverages the resources available in the Chesterfield County Public Library with the development information available through Economic Development. The website’s focus is on providing real world solutions. “My Business Starts Here” is an innovative approach that can positively impact not only individuals within the community through potential business success, but also the entire community through improved economic activity.
Uptown Alley has officially opened in Chesterfield County. The $21 million entertainment complex is not a typical bowling alley. “I have a hard time finding the right words to describe what it is,” said Steven Moore, who co-owns the venture with his wife, Cassie, and Uphoff Ventures.
The 57,000-square-foot facility includes 38 lanes of bowling, a game arcade, pool tables and a upscale causal restaurant. The top floor has a lounge with a fireplace and a full service bar called The Rotunda.
Steve Uphoff president of Uphoff Ventures and Moore’s father-in-law, said, “We are a destination for Chesterfield County as an entertainment, restaurant and bowling facility.”
Chesterfield’s Matoaca District Board of Supervisor, Steve Elswick addressed the crowd and thanked the project’s developers for building a first class facility.
The complex is expected to generate about $8 million a year in taxable sales. One-hundred-forty new jobs were created as a result of the project.
More information about can be found at UptownAlleyRichmond.com
Shoppers lined up this morning for a chance to be among the first customers at the new Kroger Marketplace store in the Stonebridge development on the site of the former Cloverleaf Mall. Company representatives and workers were joined by government officials and the general public for a flag raising ceremony and ribbon cutting at 7 a.m. which officially opened the new store.
Chesterfield Board of Supervisors Chairman Dan Gecker addressed the crowd and thanked both Kroger and Crosland Southeast for their commitment to the project and to the community.
The 123,600-square foot Kroger Marketplace store is the largest in the mid-Atlantic region and the first of its kind on the east coast. The new store employs 364 workers. In addition to a wide selection of grocery and perishable items, this store will feature products never seen in a traditional Kroger store. The store has sections such as Baby World, Expanded Home Décor, Toy World, Dyson Vacuum Cleaners, Starbucks, and a Bistro staffed with 2 executive chefs. The Bistro will provide seating for 60 people and offer WIFI along with Direct TV for customers.
Adjacent to the new Marketplace store is the biggest Kroger Fuel center in the Richmond area and one of the biggest in the company. The center can fuel 18 vehicles at one time including diesel fuel.
A new Kroger Fuel center opened Monday afternoon at the Stonebridge development on the site of the former Cloverleaf Mall. It is the biggest Kroger Fuel center in the Richmond area and one of the biggest in the company. The center can fuel 18 vehicles at one time including diesel fuel. The fuel center also sells snacks, auto products, lottery tickets, ice, 24-pack and 32-pack water. Kroger’s fuel reward program features discounts up to $2.00 per gallon based on purchases in the store.
Kroger’s newest Marketplace Store is the first one of its kind on the east coast. Besides Kroger’s wide selection of grocery and perishable items, this store will feature products never seen in a traditional Kroger store.
The Marketplace store will carry a wide variety of items ranging from everyday groceries to a living room suit. The store will have sections such as Baby World, Expanded Home Décor, Toy World, Dyson Vacuum Cleaners, Starbucks, and a Bistro staffed with 2 executive chefs. The Bistro will provide seating for 60 people and offer WIFI along with Direct TV for customers.
The grand opening of the new Kroger Marketplace store is scheduled for December 5th at 7AM.
Fiorucci Foods Inc., a maker of Italian specialty meats at a plant in Chesterfield County, has changed its name to Campofrio Food Group America.
Founded in Italy in 1850, Fiorucci Foods Inc. became part of the Campofrio Food Group in 2011. Based in Madrid, Spain, Campofrio is Europe’s largest maker of processed meats.
Fiorucci products will continue to be sold under the Fiorucci brand name and the firm’s U.S. headquarters will remain in Chesterfield, the company said. The local plant on Ruffin Mill Road produces meats such as prosciutto and salami.
Campofrio said it plans to “utilize and invest in the existing production facilities and distribution platform developed by Fiorucci Foods to introduce its European specialties to the American market.”
– Richmond Times-Dispatch – October 13, 2012
The Richmond-Times Dispatch is reporting Amazon shipped it’s first products from the Chesterfield Fulfillment Center.
Online retailer Amazon.com said Thursday that its fulfillment center in Chesterfield County shipped its first package late Wednesday.
The shipment, a pair of over-prescription shooting glasses for $8.10, went to a customer in Virginia, the company said.
The startup of the Chesterfield plant comes just a week after another new Amazon distribution center in Dinwiddie County shipped its first product — a Crock-Pot slow cooker for $19.99 — to a customer in Michigan.
Amazon said about 750 people have started work at the Chesterfield fulfillment center in Meadowville Technology Park, while about 250 are working at the plant in Dinwiddie Commerce Park.
The company said it expects to hire more people for seasonal jobs at both sites to help fill orders during the holiday season.
Amazon has been taking job applications at the website www.workatamazonfulfillment.com. On Thursday, the site did not list any open jobs in Virginia, but a company spokeswoman said the site will be updated as openings become available.
The Meadowville fulfillment center has 1.1 million square feet of space and ships packages that range from auto parts and consumer electronics to office supplies and books, the company said.
The Dinwiddie plant is 1 million square feet and ships larger items.
Amazon announced plans to open both plants in December. The $135 million investment is expected to create 1,350 jobs.
Richmond Times-Dispatch – October 5, 2012
jblackwell@timesdispatch.com (804) 775-8123
(c)2012 the Richmond Times-Dispatch (Richmond, Va.)
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