Hollister Incorporated, a global company that develops, manufactures and markets medical devices, will invest $29.6 million to upgrade machinery and expand its manufacturing plant in Augusta County, Virginia. The company will add 50,000 square feet of warehouse space and new equipment to automate processes with robotics and high-technology equipment, enhance products, and increase production volume.

"Hollister Incorporated has a long history in the valley and the reason Stuarts Draft was selected as a manufacturing site in the 70's still exists today," said Craig Hourigan, Director of Plant Operations. "The attributes that allow us to remain competitive globally are the quality of the people and the business environment in the valley."

Virginia economic development officials said the Commonwealth successfully competed against Ireland for the project. Gov. Bob McDonnell said, "Hollister Incorporated's major investment is another great stride in Augusta County's recent progress in expanding existing industry. Hollister manufactures important products for the healthcare industry and is a valued employer of hundreds of citizens in the region. This expansion and expenditure in new technology helps secure the plant's sustainability and 100 existing jobs into the future."

"Hollister's Augusta County operation is a prime location to reach North and South American customer markets," said Jim Cheng, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. "A significant investment of this nature allows increased production, proficiency and competitiveness in the healthcare industry. It is a great testament to the business climate in the Commonwealth that the company is choosing to reinvest in its Virginia operation."

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Augusta County and the Shenandoah Valley Partnership to secure the project for Virginia. Governor McDonnell approved a $250,000 performance-based grant from the Virginia Investment Partnership program, an incentive available to existing Virginia companies. Through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program, the Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide funding and services to support the company's retraining activities.

"Since 1979, Hollister has been an integral part of the community as both a premier employer and outstanding corporate citizen," said Jeffrey A. Moore, Chairman Augusta County Board of Supervisors. "The expansion of the Stuarts Draft facility represents a significant investment in our community and workforce. We are pleased that that such a highly regarded organization has chosen Stuarts Draft and we look forward to incorporating new technology and workforce training in Augusta.