Gov. McDonnell announces 35 new jobs for Powhatan

Governor Bob McDonnell's announcement of news jobs in Powhatan is certainly good news for that area outside Richmond, Virginia. Rural in nature but with the suburbs of neighboring Chesterfield County creeping over the line and heading toward Powhatan Courthouse, it makes sense for companies to look at this growing area.

Weightpack, Inc, a packaging machinery company that designs and builds complete lines for the filling and capping of liquid product containers, has announced it will move its headquarters operation from Italy to expand its Powhatan production facility. The $2.6 million investment will ultimately create 35 new jobs.

Here's more that was sent in a press release from the Governor's office:

Speaking about today’s announcement, Governor McDonnell said, “We are thrilled that with this project WEIGHTPACK is moving its corporate headquarters from Italy to its Powhatan County operation in the United States and also expanding production. As a result, the Virginia-based facility will play an essential role in the company’s continued success.

"The WEIGHTPACK machines sold in the Americas and Asia are fully assembled and serviced at the Virginia plant, and this expansion will enable the company to meet increased demand from its U.S. and international customers. Powhatan County offers the right workforce and the right business cost, and we are proud that WEIGHTPACK chose the Commonwealth for its headquarters move to the U.S.”

“The expansion of a strong employer and the gain of a corporate headquarters and 35 new job opportunities is great news for Powhatan County,” said Jim Cheng, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. “WEIGHTPACK’s multi-million dollar investment will ensure the company’s viability in Virginia as product demands grow.”

WEIGHTPACK, Inc. designs, manufactures and assembles highly precise net weight fillers, filler/capper lines, and customized systems for the packaging industry.

“The decision to move our corporate headquarters from Italy to Virginia reflects our belief that the United States has and will continue its leadership role in the high technology field throughout the world,” said WEIGHTPACK CEO, Gianguido Corniani.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Powhatan County to secure the project for Virginia. Through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program, the Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide funding and services to support the company’s recruitment and training activities.

“Powhatan County is pleased to partner with The Governor’s Office and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership to provide support to WEIGHTPACK,” said Barry Hodge, Chairman of the Powhatan County Board of Supervisors. “We are proud that WEIGHTPACK has chosen Powhatan County as a place to do business. WEIGHTPACK’s business fits perfectly with Powhatan’s economic development plans and its expansion here is recognition of the quality of the County’s school system in preparing the workforce of tomorrow.”

Read more at the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Powhatan Today.