Governor Kaine Announces 175 New Jobs for Franklin County & Rocky Mount

ROCKY MOUNT - Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced that MW Manufacturers Inc. will invest $23 million to expand its Rocky Mount headquarters and production facility in Franklin County. The company, which produces and distributes window and door products for the residential construction industry, will create 175 new jobs. Virginia successfully competed against North Carolina and New Jersey for the project.

“MW Manufacturers’ decision to expand in Rocky Mount is significant,” said Governor Kaine. “MW is Franklin County’s largest employer, and I congratulate the County on providing an exemplary business climate that nurtures existing businesses.”

MW Manufacturers Inc. employs 2,500 associates, with 1,400 currently located in Rocky Mount facilities. Founded in 1939, MW has expanded on a rich tradition in handcrafted millwork to become a major manufacturer of classic wood, clad and all-vinyl windows. MW currently operates manufacturing and distribution facilities in Rocky Mount; Fayetteville, North Carolina; Hammonton, New Jersey and Tupelo, Mississippi. MW brands, including Freedom, Classic, Jefferson, Twinseal and Patriot, are sold in building material dealers and home centers throughout the eastern United States.

“The expansion of our Rocky Mount facilities reflects our continued commitment to Franklin County and to the people that make our success possible,” said Lynn Morstad, MW Manufacturers Inc. President. “This investment will effectively supplement the growth and capacity needs of MW while providing additional employment for our region.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Rocky Mount, Franklin County and the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Kaine approved a $100,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Franklin County with the project. The Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission approved $100,000 in Tobacco Region Opportunity Funds for the project. The company qualifies for rail access funding from the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation.

“With over 1,400 employees in Franklin County, MW is one of the powerhouses of our local economy,” said Wayne Angell, Chairman, Franklin County Board of Supervisors. “Their employees, management team and owners continue to be leaders in our communities and we are proud that they choose to grow their company here where they started over 60 years ago. This announcement pushes Franklin County over the $100 million mark in new investments since May 2006. Our community’s workforce is clearly providing businesses with the advantage they need to be successful in the global marketplace.”

“The County and Town were pleased to assist MW with selecting Rocky Mount for their $23 million expansion,” said Mark Newbill, Mayor, Rocky Mount. “We thank MW President Lynn Morstad for his commitment to our community and we look forward to working with his team to provide them with the support they need to continue their phenomenal success.”