RICHMOND - Governor Mark R. Warner today announced that Hudd Distribution – a Maersk Logistics Company - will expand its existing distribution facility in the City of Chesapeake’s Gateway Commerce Park. Hudd Distribution is a subsidiary of Maersk Logistics, one of the world’s leading logistics companies headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark. Through a $14 million investment, the company will create 260 new jobs. Virginia successfully competed with Georgia and South Carolina for the project.
“This investment is another testament to Virginia’s transportation network and world-class shipping facilities,” said Governor Warner. “The Port of Virginia has played a pivotal role in many of our Hampton Roads economic development announcements, and this one is no exception. I am pleased that Hudd Distribution has chosen to reinvest in the City of Chesapeake.”
Hudd Distribution’s existing 225,000-square-foot facility opened in Chesapeake in 2001 and provides logistics support to Wal-Mart, Target and Heineken. Hudd Distribution will purchase 25 additional acres in the Gateway Commerce Park and construct an 80,000 square foot addition to its existing facility. The investment will allow Hudd Distribution to expand services to Target Corporation and other major national retailers.
“Our commitment to service our clients depends not only on our ability to execute, but also that of our partners like the Commonwealth of Virginia and the City of Chesapeake,” said Michael Bach, President of Hudd Distribution – a Maersk Logistics Company. “Our ability to grow and develop in this area would not be possible without the operational excellence we have experienced since we established ourselves in the area in 1998.”
Governor Warner approved a $75,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist the City of Chesapeake with the project. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the Chesapeake Economic Development Department assisted Hudd Distribution with its decision to expand. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide workforce training services.
“HUDD Distribution Services has an established international reputation for excellence in providing distribution services to its clients,” said Chesapeake Mayor William E. Ward. “The Port of Virginia is vital to the continued economic success of Hampton Roads, and the expanded presence of such companies as HUDD and Maersk reinforces this region's position as the premier logistics center on the East Coast.”