Manufacturer to create 40 new jobs, invest $11 million in new production lines
Richmond - Governor Jim Gilmore today announced that Ball Corporation, a manufacturer of metal and plastic packaging products for beverages and foods, will invest $11 million in its existing Bristol facility. The expansion will create 40 new jobs for Virginians this year. Virginia successfully competed with North Carolina and Indiana for the investment.
"I am delighted an outstanding Virginia corporate citizen such as Ball Corporation has chosen to expand its facility in Bristol," Governor Gilmore said. "The company's expansion will result in new jobs and opportunities for the people of Southwest Virginia."
Ball Corporation, based in Broomfield, Colorado, reported 1998 sales of $2.9 billion. Its Bristol facility produces recyclable aluminum can ends. As a result of the company's investment, additional production capacity will be added at the facility. Ball Corporation also operates a metal beverage can plant in Williamsburg, Virginia.
"We are pleased to be able to expand our Bristol plant," President of Ball's metal beverage can operations Leon A. Midgett said. "The expansion is good for Ball Corporation and good for the region. Though Ball has owned the Bristol plant for only a little more than a year, it already has established itself as one of the truly fine plants in our system."
"Manufacturing remains the top employer in the Commonwealth," Secretary of Commerce and Trade Barry E. DuVal added. "Ball Corporation will continue to benefit from Virginia's strategic East Coast location and pro-business climate."
Mark R. Kilduff, executive director of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, attended a ribbon cutting ceremony today at the plant.
Governor Gilmore approved a grant from the Governor's Opportunity Fund in the amount of $100,000 to assist the City of Bristol with site preparation. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Mount Rogers Partnership and the City of Bristol assisted Ball Corporation with its decision. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide workforce training services.
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