Area Development
World Class Distribution, Inc., a distribution, warehousing, and cold storage network company, will establish operations in Caroline County, Virginia. The $275 million project is expected to create 745 jobs.

The company will construct a 1.2 million-square-foot distribution facility in the Caroline 95 Logistics Park in Ruther Glen.

“On our 50th anniversary of U.S. operations, we are pleased to partner with the City of Chesapeake and the Commonwealth of Virginia,” said Mr. Shinichi Nakano, President and CEO. “August 2023 marks the 100th anniversary of our operations in Japan, and our logistics facility in Virginia will be fundamental to the development of this area.”

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

“Today’s announcement is an important step forward as we focus on returning more Virginians to the workforce, and I thank World Class Distribution for creating 745 new, high-quality jobs in the Commonwealth,” noted Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Virginia’s extensive transportation infrastructure is the cornerstone of our position as a leader in supply chain management, and World Class Distribution’s major investment will contribute to the Commonwealth’s success in this important industry.”

The Governors’ office approved a $3 million grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund. World Class Distribution is eligible to receive benefits from the Major Business Facility Job Tax Credit for new, full-time jobs created. VEDP is working with the Virginia Department of Transportation to determine eligibility for funding through the Economic Development Access Road program.

“Caroline County’s strategic location and proximity to major highways will position World Class Distribution for continued growth in the U.S. market, and we are excited to welcome the company’s new 1.2 million-square-foot distribution center,” added Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “World-class logistics, a strong workforce, and effective collaboration are the hallmarks of economic development in Virginia, and this significant project will make the Commonwealth even more attractive for additional investments in our logistics sector.”

Founded in 2009, World Class Distribution is a subsidiary of TACT Holding Inc. WCD distributes food and beverage products, including canned foods, dry goods, sweets, grocery, beer and wine, frozen foods, and other refrigerated products.