Area Development
Apex Mills, a specialty supplier and manufacturer of warp knit fabrics geared towards industrial and technical applications, will acquire the former HanesBrands facility and its equipment in Patrick County, Virginia. The $3.1 million project is expected to create 44 jobs.

The company will fulfill contracts for the Hanes basic apparel brand and maximize the full capacity of the facility.

“The Apex Mills family of companies has been manufacturing Made in the USA textiles for 80 years, and as part of our dedication to support and grow the domestic textile industry we are continually seeking facilities and communities committed to this same goal,” said Jonathan Kurz, Apex Mills President and CEO. “When we became aware of the imminent closing of the HanesBrands Woolwine operation and learned more about the rich tradition of textile manufacturing in Patrick County we ultimately made the decision that this was where we wanted to locate our next fabric formation facility. The skilled workforce in the Woolwine, Stuart, and surrounding communities, as well as the support we have received from the county and the state, have made this opportunity one which we are proud to be a part of.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with Patrick County to secure the project for Virginia.

“We look forward to Apex Mills building on the HanesBrands company legacy, supported by Patrick County’s skilled workforce that has a long and successful history in the textile industry,” noted Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “As U.S. manufacturing continues its resurgence, leading companies select Virginia for its strategic location, business-friendly environment, and robust talent, and we are thrilled to add Apex Mills to our roster.”

Governor Youngkin approved a $300,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Patrick County with the project. Apex Mills is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, and funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

“Patrick County is proud to be the place that Apex Mills has chosen to expand its business operations,” added Sean Adams, Patrick County Director of Economic Development. “Our community has a long history of being home to many industries, especially textile companies, and the hardworking individuals that live and work for them in our resilient county. This announcement proves that a successful company sees Patrick County as a place it can expand into, while also incorporating revolutionary technologies run by our citizens. We're grateful for the retained jobs, and also for the creation of 44 new, high-paying ones in the coming years."

Founded in 1943, Apex Mills expedites innovative solutions while responding to customers’ growing and newly arising opportunities. With performance-based solid knit, mesh/netting, and 3D spacer textile solutions, the company is a respected brand trusted by Fortune 500 companies. Apex Mills manufactures all of its textiles in the U.S. and distributes products globally.