Richmond - Governor Jim Gilmore today announced that VFP, Inc. will create 100 new jobs at its Concrete Division plant in Scott County. The Roanoke-based manufacturer will invest $1.2 million in the expansion. The plant opened in June 1997. 

"VFP is a respected company that relies on Southwest Virginia's workforce," Governor Gilmore said. "As a growing Virginia-based company and a participant in my trade mission to South America last year, I'm pleased that VFP's product orders have exceeded expectations." 

VFP, Inc. is a manufacturer of concrete, fiberglass and metal equipment shelters that house telecommunications and power distribution equipment. The specially designed buildings are in service in all 50 states and 80 foreign countries. The Scott County facility produces modular concrete reinforced shelters that provide bullet, vandal and fire protection for a variety of critical equipment. The Scott County facility is located in an Enterprise Zone at the Duffield Industrial Park, a property jointly owned by the counties of Lee, Scott, Wise and the City of Norton.

Frank Van Balen, CEO of VFP, said, "The decision to expand our concrete division in Duffield was aided tremendously with the valuable assistance of state and local development groups, as well as the availability of a fine workforce." 

"Existing businesses are critical to Virginia's economic success," Secretary of Commerce and Trade Barry E. DuVal added. "VFP has again invested in the Commonwealth and serves as a model of success for Virginia-based companies." 

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority and the Scott County Industrial Development Authority assisted the company with its decision. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide workforce training services and the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development will assist with Enterprise Zone tax credits. 

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Press Contact(s)

Lila White
www.thedigitaldominion.com
(804) 692-3110
Jill Vaughan
VEDP
(804) 371-0049
Jerry Arnold, President VFP, Inc.