Scholle IPN Packaging, Inc. to invest $10.29 million to expand manufacturing operation
RICHMOND—Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Scholle IPN Packaging, Inc., an innovative manufacturer of sustainable packaging solutions, will invest $10.29 million to expand its production facility in Smyth County. The project will create 42 new jobs.
“Scholle IPN has a history of success in Southwest Virginia, and the company’s decision to expand operations in Smyth County is a strong testament to the region’s dedicated workforce and industry-leading training programs,” said Governor Northam. “With more than 240,000 Virginians employed in the manufacturing industry, this sector remains the backbone of many communities throughout our Commonwealth. We are proud to support Scholle IPN as the company evolves its technology and continues to grow.”
Scholle IPN is one of the world’s largest and most innovative packaging manufacturers; providing sustainable packaging solutions for the food and beverage, agriculture, automotive, cleaning, personal care, and pharmaceutical sectors. The company is committed to making products safe and accessible while minimizing waste and extending shelf life. Headquartered in Illinois, Scholle IPN operates in 14 countries with over 2,000 employees worldwide.
“We are honored to celebrate the expansion of a major manufacturer and long-term contributor to the region’s strong, diverse manufacturing base,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “Scholle IPN’s continued growth in Smyth County is a true economic success story for Southwest Virginia, and we look forward to the company’s next phase as it expands in the North American market.”
“This a key milestone in Scholle IPN’s long-range plan for our North American business,” stated Kent Kisselle, Vice President and General Manager of Scholle IPN’s North America region. “Our decision to expand in Chilhowie was necessitated by our continued growth in core flexible packaging markets along with the need to support our long-term strategic objectives. These initiatives include the development and application of a broad range of technologies to our business, and training our people in using these tools. Southwest Virginia is a strong fit in terms of high-quality labor availability and runway for additional investment, led by a solid leadership group ready to execute our strategic initiatives. I look forward to seeing the new Chilhowie plant footprint take shape in the coming months and welcoming our new team members as we prepare for an exciting 2020 and beyond.”
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Smyth County, the Virginia Industrial Advancement Alliance, the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission, and the Virginia Port Authority to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Northam approved a $125,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Smyth County with the project. The Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission approved $195,000 in Tobacco Region Opportunity Funds. Scholle IPN will be eligible to receive Sales and Use Tax exemptions on manufacturing equipment, as well as benefits from the Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone Grant Program. The company also qualifies for state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.
“Today’s exciting announcement of the growth and expansion of our long-term partner, Scholle IPN, is welcome news in Smyth County and Southwest Virginia,” said Chairman of the Smyth County Board of Supervisors Todd Dishner. “The work involved in making this project a reality demonstrates the true partnership and concentrated effort that exists between Scholle IPN, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and Smyth County to provide for and facilitate growth right here within our limits. We are extremely proud of the relationship that has developed with Scholle IPN over the years and look forward to growing and continuing this partnership well into the future.”
“Innovation drives economic growth,” said John Reinhart, CEO and Executive Director of the Virginia Port Authority. “Our Economic and Infrastructure Development Grant Program and the Virginia Port Tax Credits are innovative tools that help keep Virginia competitive. We’re honored to continue to act as Scholle IPN’s global gateway and a catalyst for commerce.”
“Scholle IPN has been a valuable business partner in Smyth County for many years, and I am pleased that they are expanding their manufacturing operation and adding 42 new jobs,” said Tobacco Commission member Senator Bill Carrico. “Helping existing businesses expand, bringing jobs and investment to Southwest Virginia, is a top priority for the Tobacco Commission, and I am glad the Commission chose to support this project.”
“Scholle IPN is a great corporate citizen, and I’m glad to see the company growing and expanding in Smyth County,”said Delegate Israel O’Quinn. “Economic growth is a top priority for the Southwest Virginia legislative delegation, and this announcement is welcome news.”