Mercana Furniture and Décor, a Canadian manufacturer and wholesaler of home goods across North America, will invest $8.5 million to establish its first U.S. warehouse and distribution operation in Newport News, Virginia. The project is expected to create 26 jobs.

The company will move into a 124,000-square-foot facility formerly owned by the Newport News Industrial Development Authority and occupied by Canon Virginia. This facility will serve as the company’s East Coast and Central U.S. customers, housing thousands of items across its full lineup of art, furniture, lighting, and accessories.

“Located near all major port terminals, railroads and highways, Newport News is extremely favorable for inbound and outbound shipping,” said Michael Saby, Mercana Chief Operations Officer. “This investment will improve the agility of our supply chain and allow us to get products to our customers quicker than ever before. It’s a great privilege for us to be welcomed into the Newport News community and we are excited to be playing a part in cultivating sustainable business in the area.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with the City of Newport News, the Hampton Roads Alliance, and The Port of Virginia to secure the project for Virginia and will support Mercana’s job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs in order to support employee recruitment and training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state-funded, demonstrating Virginia’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities for citizens. The company is also eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

“Mercana’s decision to establish its first U.S. warehouse and distribution facility in Newport News demonstrates the region’s infrastructure and workforce advantages that continue to attract high-quality international companies,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “Supply chain management is booming in the Commonwealth, and Mercana will be a strong addition to the industry.”

The company is also eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

“On behalf of the Hampton Roads Alliance, I’d like to congratulate Newport News on securing this project and welcome Mercana Furniture and Décor to Hampton Roads,” said Douglas L. Smith, President & Chief Executive Officer, Hampton Roads Alliance. “Not only is Hampton Roads’ strategic location ideal for the company’s distribution plans, the Port of Virginia’s presence will allow this company to import product and expand its presence along the East Coast. Our thanks to our partners at VEDP, the Port of Virginia, and Newport News Department of Development for a job well done.”

Founded in Vancouver, British Columbia, Mercana Furniture and Décor creates custom designed furniture and decor for retail partners and interior designers around the globe at wholesale prices.

“We are pleased that Mercana Furniture and Décor has made the strategic decision to strengthen its supply chain by locating in Newport News,” said Stephen A. Edwards, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the Virginia Port Authority. “We continue to invest in our infrastructure and capabilities so that companies like Mercana Furniture and Décor have the confidence to make The Port of Virginia their global gateway. We welcome Mercana to Virginia and look forward to a long and successful partnership.”