Richmond - Governor Jim Gilmore today announced International Cold Storage (ICS) will construct a new facility in the Colleen Business Park in Nelson County. Moving its existing operations from Albemarle County to Nelson County will allow the company to expand and in turn remain in Virginia. ICS's expansion will create 74 new jobs and the relocation will retain the existing 73 positions, resulting in 147 new and preserved jobs. The company will invest $3.02 million in this expansion. Virginia successfully competed with North Carolina for this project.
"I am pleased that International Cold Storage did not have to leave Virginia to meet its growing needs," said Governor Gilmore. "The Commonwealth is committed to supporting its existing and expanding industries."
International Cold Storage originated the concept of outside walk-in freezers and coolers more than 50 years ago and has long been recognized as one of the top names in the refrigeration industry. Headquartered in Andover, Kansas, ICS provides equipment to meet the needs of the food service industry, convenience stores and institutions. A subsidiary of Tyler Refrigeration and Carrier Corporation, ICS is a United Technologies Corporation (NYSE: UTX) company.
"Virginia has been the home of our Eastern manufacturing operations for the past 26 years and our success here has been instrumental to our rapid growth", said Jack Finlason, President of International Cold Storage. "We outgrew our present location and made it a priority to find another Virginia location close enough to retain the employees who have contributed so much to our success. The Nelson County location certainly meets all of our priorities and we look forward to at least another 26 years of manufacturing success in Virginia."
"The Commonwealth will benefit from the retention of International Cold Storage," said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Barry E. DuVal. "Not only is it a high-quality manufacturer, but the jobs of many Albemarle County residents will be saved."
Governor Gilmore approved a $150,000 grant from the Governor's Opportunity Fund to assist Nelson County with site preparation. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Thomas Jefferson Regional Partnership and Nelson County assisted International Cold Storage with its decision. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide workforce training services.