Medical Manufacturer Jouan, Inc. To Invest $8 Million In Virginia
Richmond - Governor George Allen today announced that Jouan, Inc., a medical laboratory equipment manufacturer based in France, will expand its Winchester facility, and create 60 new jobs in the Shenandoah Valley. The $8 million plant will cover 103,000 square feet in Frederick County in an industrial park to be renamed the Jouan Global Center. The expansion was a direct result of meetings that occurred between Governor Allen and Mr. Marcel Victorri, Chairman of the Board of Jouan, Inc., during the Governor's September 1996 European Trade Mission.
"Jouan's decision to expand its Frederick County medical manufacturing plant is the right prescription for Virginia," said Governor Allen. "I am pleased to have met personally with Mr. Victorri during our Trade Mission to Europe last year. Jouan, Inc. will complement our excellent laboratories and medical facilities, and enhance Virginia's reputation in the manufacturing and biotechnology communities."
Jouan, Inc. produces medical laboratory centrifuges, ovens and freezers at its current plant in Winchester. The company maintains a strong commitment to research and plans to expand its research and development staff when the facility is completed in July.
Lyle Cady, President of Jouan, Inc., cited Virginia's favorable business environment, excellent education system and superior quality of life as primary factors in the expansion decision. "We are proud to expand our already successful plant in Winchester and look forward to increasing our profits in Virginia's successful business climate," said Cady. "In addition, Jouan, Inc. has been extremely pleased with Virginia's quality workforce.
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the Winchester-Frederick County Economic Development Commission assisted the company with its decision. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide workforce training services. North Carolina and South Carolina also competed to attract the Jouan facility.
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