Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced that German company Weidmüller Group, a provider of smart industrial connectivity products and solutions that connect and automate electrical power and signaling for components, machines, and installations worldwide, will invest $16.4 million to expand its existing Richmond operation at 821 Southlake Boulevard in Chesterfield County.
As part of its ‘Made in America’ commitment, Weidmüller will increase its engineering and production footprint in the U.S. by 24,000 square feet, allowing the company to engineer and manufacture products to meet growing North American customer demand and strengthen its supply chain. Virginia successfully competed with other states for the project, which will create more than 100 new jobs.
“We want ‘Made in America’ to mean ‘Made in Virginia,’ and Weidmüller Group has been manufacturing its products for more than five decades in Chesterfield County,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Their longevity and continued investment are a powerful testament to the advantages a Virginia location offers international companies seeking growth in North American markets, and we look forward to Weidmüller’s continued success.”
“We are committed to a best-in-class business environment in Virginia to attract and retain industry-leading companies like Weidmüller Group, and we are proud to partner with this global leader on its expansion in Chesterfield County,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “The Commonwealth’s top-rated talent helps our businesses thrive, and we encourage interested applicants to visit www.us.weidmullercareers.com and apply for these 21st-century jobs.”
“Weidmüller’s expansion in the United States cements our commitment to bring engineering and manufacturing closer to North American partners and customers. By deepening our partnerships with Chesterfield County and the Commonwealth of Virginia, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to expand in a state known for a talented workforce, strong logistical benefits with access to Virginia ports, and strategically located to best service our customers. As a recipient of the coveted ‘Richmond Top Workplaces’ award over the past two years, we are excited to continue that trend while growing our workforce in the Greater Richmond area,” said Bernd Schröder, President, Weidmüller USA.
“On behalf of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors, we welcome Weidmüller’s expansion of their manufacturing and engineering presence in Chesterfield,” said Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Chairman Kevin Carroll. “Weidmüller has been a tremendous corporate citizen in Chesterfield for over 50 years and their expansion project reaffirms their commitment to our community.”
“We applaud Weidmüller Group’s decision to expand its manufacturing center in Chesterfield County and continue to capitalize on the growing access to global markets offered by The Port of Virginia,” said Stephen A. Edwards, CEO and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority. “This company’s products help support the expanding electric vehicle market, so logistics and supply chain consistency are critical to a successful operation. The investments we’re making in our terminals will help to ensure that Weidmüller can expand the international movement of its products without concern. We welcome Weidmüller and are looking forward to supporting its growth.”
“I’m thrilled about the announcement of Weidmüller Group's expansion to Chesterfield County. This project will provide new jobs for Virginians, bolster our economy, and emphasize how great the Commonwealth is for business investments and collaboration,” said Congressman Rob Wittman. “I thank Governor Youngkin and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership for their work in bringing Weidmüller to the Commonwealth and the First District, and I congratulate Weidmüller Group and Chesterfield County on this exciting announcement.”
“I am delighted to have the Weidmüller Group select its Chesterfield Country location to invest and expand current operations in the U.S.,” said Delegate Dawn M. Adams. “The additional 100 jobs this project brings will be yet another boost to the economic activity in the Greater Richmond area and will bolster the infrastructure available in our transition to a more environmentally sustainable future.”
Founded in 1850 and operating in Chesterfield County, Virginia for more than 50 years, the Weidmüller Group has production sites, sales companies, and representatives in more than 80 countries. Together with its customers, the Detmold, Germany-based, family-owned company is shaping digital transformation with products, solutions, and services for smart industrial connectivity and the Industrial Internet of Things. In fiscal year 2022, Weidmüller generated a turnover of more than one billion euros with about 6,000 employees around the world.
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Chesterfield County to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $488,450 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Chesterfield County with the project. The company is eligible to receive benefits from the Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone Grant Program.
Support for Weidmüller’s job creation will be provided through the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, a workforce initiative created by VEDP in collaboration with the Virginia Community College System and other higher education partners, with funding support from the Governor’s administration and the Virginia General Assembly. Launched in 2019, the program accelerates new facility start-ups through the direct delivery of recruitment and training services that are fully customized to a company’s unique products, processes, equipment, standards, and culture. All program services are provided at no cost to qualified new and expanding companies as an incentive for job creation.