RICHMOND - Governor Mark R. Warner today announced that Intertape Polymer Group Inc. (IPG) will expand its existing operations in Pittsylvania County. Through an investment of more than $5 million over the next 30 months, IPG will construct a new 200,000-square-foot facility in the Ringgold West Industrial Park and create 50 new jobs. Virginia successfully competed with other IPG locations for this expansion.
“Intertape Polymer Group will remain competitive by tapping Virginia’s motivated workforce and cost-effective access to major markets,” said Governor Warner. “This expansion will create 50 new, quality jobs for Southside Virginia. I am pleased Intertape Polymer chose to reinvest in Pittsylvania County.”
Intertape Polymer Group is a recognized leader in the development and manufacture of specialized polyolefin plastic and paper-based packaging products as well as complementary packaging systems for industrial and retail use. Headquartered in Montreal, Quebec and Bradenton, Florida, the company employs approximately 2,600 people with operations in 21 locations, including 15 manufacturing facilities in North America and one in Europe.
The company’s existing Pittsylvania County facility, also located in Ringgold, was established in 1987. The operation manufactures and distributes both hot melt and acrylic adhesive coated tapes and stretch film, and redistributes shrink film, machinery and tapes manufactured in other facilities. IPG currently employs 244 people in Pittsylvania County. The 50 new positions will include forklift operators, warehouse workers, materials handlers and inventory clerks. Construction on the new facility will begin in April 2003 and is expected to be complete by fourth quarter of this year.
IPG’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Melbourne F. Yull applauded the cooperation from the Commonwealth of Virginia. “Our decision to locate this facility in Pittsylvania County is clearly the result of the understanding county officials so quickly developed of our needs,” said Yull. “The process was efficient and respected our tight timelines. We have enjoyed an excellent relationship in the Danville area for years and look forward to taking this next major step as IPG continues to grow. Both our customers and IPG will benefit with the new Danville regional distribution center. Stock availability will be higher, cycle times will be reduced and shipments to customers will be further consolidated, resulting in greater efficiencies and lower processing costs as well as increased inventory turns.”
Governor Warner approved a $100,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Pittsylvania County with the project. The county also obtained $100,000 in Tobacco Region Opportunity Funds. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Pittsylvania County Department of Economic Development and the Industrial Development Authority of Pittsylvania County assisted IPG with its decision to expand. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide workforce training services and financing through the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority.