The Solenis investment in Hampton Roads is a significant move, with the specialty chemical industry leader announcing a $193 million expansion of its operations in Suffolk, Virginia. The expansion includes a new production and packaging facility, tank farm, and rail spur to enhance production of polyvinyl amine (PVAm) polymer products, essential in paper and cardboard manufacturing. This move not only adds to Solenis’ product line but also creates 34 new jobs, reinforcing the local economy. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick, and Secretary of Transportation Shep Miller lauded this development, highlighting the region’s robust manufacturing sector, skilled workforce, and superior transportation system. The expansion is in line with Solenis CEO John Panichella’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing and is set to meet rising demands for eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
Introduction
By Tim Ryan
Solenis’ Expansion in Suffolk
In a remarkable stride forward for the Hampton Roads region, Solenis, a global leader in the specialty chemical industry, has announced a substantial $193 million investment to expand its operations in Suffolk, Virginia. This development emphasizes the region’s growing prominence as a hub for innovation and business.
Details of the Expansion
The planned expansion includes a new 80,000-square-foot production facility, packaging facility, tank farm, and the addition of a rail spur. These advancements will significantly enhance the production of polyvinyl amine (PVAm) polymer products, which are vital in paper and cardboard manufacturing. This initiative boosts Solenis’ existing product line and adds critical monomer capacity to its supply chain. The project will also create 34 new jobs, further invigorating the local economy.
Government Support and Acknowledgements
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin highlighted the significance of this investment, underscoring Hampton Roads’ robust manufacturing sector, skilled workforce, and logistical advantages, including a world-class port. This expansion exemplifies the region’s conducive business climate and its ability to support major industry players like Solenis.
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick and Secretary of Transportation Shep Miller echoed these sentiments, lauding the Commonwealth of Virginia’s role in facilitating such growth and emphasizing the state’s superior transportation system and infrastructure.
Commitment to Sustainability
Solenis CEO John Panichella’s remarks about the company’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing operations resonate with IHR’s focus on innovation and sustainability. This new facility is poised to meet the rising demand for environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and diversify into new applications, driving further growth.
Local Impact and Acknowledgements
Suffolk Mayor Michael Duman and Stephen A. Edwards, CEO of the Virginia Port Authority, acknowledged the significance of this investment for the local economy and the competitive edge provided by the Port of Virginia. The expansion is a testament to Suffolk’s economic development, a beacon of opportunity for the local workforce, and a catalyst for increased production capacity.
Senator Emily Jordan emphasized the importance of creating a robust economy and prioritizing workforce development, key elements in fostering regional growth and attracting good-paying jobs to Suffolk.
Conclusion
This investment by Solenis is another milestone for Hampton Roads, signifying the region’s escalating momentum in innovation and business attractiveness. As more companies like Solenis choose to invest in our area, it reinforces the vision of Innovate Hampton Roads to build an interconnected, inclusive, and innovative ecosystem. The future looks bright for Hampton Roads as it continues establishing itself as a prime location for businesses seeking growth, innovation, and a supportive community.
Together, we are witnessing and actively shaping Hampton Roads’s transformation into a dynamic and prosperous hub for entrepreneurs and businesses alike.
Question & Answer
What is the significance of Solenis’ investment in Hampton Roads?
The investment by Solenis in Hampton Roads involves a $193 million expansion of its operations in Suffolk, Virginia, which includes a new production and packaging facility, tank farm, and rail spur to enhance the production of essential polymer products used in paper and cardboard manufacturing.
How many new jobs will be created as a result of Solenis’ expansion?
The expansion project by Solenis is set to create 34 new jobs, contributing to the reinforcement of the local economy in Suffolk, Virginia.
What are some of the key factors highlighted by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin regarding Solenis’ investment?
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin emphasized the robust manufacturing sector, skilled workforce, and superior transportation system in the region, underscoring the conducive business climate that supports major industry players like Solenis.
What is Solenis CEO John Panichella’s commitment in relation to the new facility?
Solenis CEO John Panichella is committed to sustainable manufacturing operations, aiming to meet the rising demand for eco-friendly manufacturing processes and diversify into new applications, driving further growth for the company.
