Governor Gilmore Announces Headquarters Relocation From Tennessee To Virginia

RICHMOND - Governor Jim Gilmore today announced that Bristol Brass will relocate its headquarters from Bristol, Tennessee to Bristol, Virginia. The company’s new facility will consist of a 12,000 square-foot existing building and a 60,000 square-foot new building on the site formerly known as the Coal Technology Corporation property. Bristol Brass will invest $4 million and employ 125 people at this facility.

“I am pleased that Virginia’s vibrant workforce, competitive operating costs, and favorable tax climate made Virginia more attractive to Bristol Brass, ” said Governor Gilmore. “The addition of 125 new jobs will benefit not only the City of Bristol but the Commonwealth as a whole.” 

Governor Gilmore approved a $175,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist the City of Bristol with site preparation. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the City of Bristol assisted Bristol Brass with its decision. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide workforce training services.

Bristol Brass is a domestic manufacturer of decorative housewares. The company was founded in 1991 by Randy Coleman and has grown from six employees to over 100. Bristol Brass customers include major retailers and original equipment manufacturers. The product line consists of planters, containers, window boxes, ovals, floral buckets, umbrella stands, waste bins, hearth products and candle accessories. Bristol Brass plans to start construction immediately on the 60,000-square-foot addition with manufacturing activities to start in the first quarter of 2002. Upon completion of the addition, Bristol Brass will employ manufacturing, maintenance, sales and staff support personnel at the facility.

“After a thorough review of various locations, we found Virginia’s strong commitment to business, the accessibility of efficient transportation and the availability of a dedicated workforce a natural fit for our company,” said Randy Coleman, President of Bristol Brass. 

“Bristol Brass’ decision to relocate its headquarters in Virginia is a strong testament to the Commonwealth’s pro-business climate,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Barry E. DuVal. “Recognized as a leader in its industry, Bristol Brass is a welcome addition to Southwest Virginia.”