A global technology leader in electrification and automation is investing $28.5 million to expand its manufacturing operations in Henrico County, Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced in a press release Tuesday.
The project will be implemented by ABB, a Switzerland-based company that employs more than 110,000 people at more than 170 manufacturing facilities across the globe. The investment in Henrico County is expected to create more than 100 jobs over the next three years.
“ABB’s decision to invest again in Henrico County doubles down on nearly 60 years of success here in Virginia,” Youngkin said. “Virginia’s workforce continues to prove they can rise to the challenge and deliver world-class results. Together, we’re powering the future and meeting America’s energy needs with the groundbreaking work ABB is leading right here in Henrico County.”
ABB employs approximately 17,000 people across 40 manufacturing, distribution, and operational facilities in 20 states. The company first established a facility in Henrico County in 1968, and is adding a new test center, warehouse, and assembly lines to the existing facility.
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura said the ABB investment has energized the economy in Henrico County.
“Keeping the lights on in this country requires an all-hands-on-deck, all-of-the-above approach when it comes to energy,” Segura said. “The research, production, and distribution work ABB is doing in Henrico County is a vital part of that.”
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership and Henrico County worked to secure the project, while Youngkin approved a $300,000 grant from the state’s Opportunity Fund.
ABB Electrification Senior Vice President of Industry Partnerships Franklin Sullivan said the company is continually investing in its workforce and advanced manufacturing in the U.S., which is the company’s largest global market, to help customers reduce energy costs and improve efficiency.
“The expanded facility in Richmond will increase ABB’s production capacity to meet significant market demand for advanced electrification solutions and enable us to continue to optimize customer service in this growing market,” Sullivan said.
Currently, ABB’s Henrico County facility employs 184 Virginia residents, manufacturing power production products such as power distribution units and static transfer switches. It produces around 2,500 units per year, which are used to support data centers, hospitals, and manufacturing plants.
“ABB has been a valued part of our community for nearly 60 years,” said Henrico EDA Board of Directors Chairman Edward S. Whitlock III. “Their continued investment and creation of new jobs in Henrico underscores their confidence in our locality and their commitment to our shared values—innovation, progress, and sustainability. We wish ABB continued success in the years ahead.”
