Governor Gilmore Announces Morrill Motors' Location in Washington County

Manufacturer will create 65 new jobs, invest $3.5 million in Southwest Virginia

Richmond - Governor Jim Gilmore today announced that Morrill Motors, Inc., a producer of small appliance motors, will locate its new manufacturing operation in the Washington County Industrial Park. The company, under the name Appalachian Cast Products, plans to create 65 new jobs and invest $3.5 million in the plant. Virginia successfully competed with Tennessee for the investment. Secretary of Commerce and Trade Barry E. DuVal attended today’s announcement ceremony.

"Morrill Motors’ decision to locate this important facility in Washington County is great news for the people of Southwest Virginia," Governor Gilmore said. "My administration will continue to assist all regions of the Commonwealth in their economic development efforts, so that no region is left behind." 

Morrill Motors is one of the country’s largest manufacturers of small appliance motors. Headquartered in Erwin, Tennessee, the company’s clients include True Manufacturing, Amana, Frigidaire, Whirlpool and Oasis. For the first time, Morrill will produce metal cast housing for its motors at the Washington County facility. The company previously purchased these components from outside sources.

"We appreciate the progressive, pro-business attitude of Washington County and the Commonwealth of Virginia," Morrill Motors’ Chairman and CEO Paul Farnor said. "The speed in which this matter was handled has certainly been a benefit for our start-up operations. We know we have an excellent opportunity to grow and prosper in Washington County."

"We are pleased to welcome Morrill Motors as Virginia’s newest corporate citizen," Secretary DuVal added. "This respected manufacturer will benefit from the Commonwealth’s positive business climate and the region’s dedicated workforce."

Governor Gilmore approved a grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund in the amount of $65,000 to assist Washington County with site preparation. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Mount Rogers Partnership and the Washington County Board of Supervisors and Industrial Development Authority assisted Morrill Motors with its decision. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide workforce training services.

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