Area Development
Porter's Group, LLC, a manufacturer of fabricated metal products, will establish its first Commonwealth production facility in Lynchburg, Virginia, where it plans to invest $1.8 million to upgrade an existing building and create 120 jobs in the area.

Gov. Bob McDonnell said; "This tremendous project is a well-timed win for Porter's Group, LLC and the City of Lynchburg. The company's purchase of an existing manufacturing facility and its assets enables a quick turnaround to production, and the first Virginia operation will allow access to new markets in the Mid-Atlantic. The City of Lynchburg gains a new employer and owner for an available property, as well as 120 new good-paying jobs that utilize the existing workforce talent in the region."

Charles Saleh, Porter's Group, LLC CEO stated, "We are very excited for this opportunity to join the Lynchburg, Virginia business community and create a long and prosperous relationship. We look forward to contributing to the economic growth in the Lynchburg area."

"With this project we welcome another corporate partner to the Commonwealth," said Jim Cheng, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. "Porter's Group's new operation will not only expand the company's footprint on the east coast, it will also provide 120 experienced workers in the City of Lynchburg with quality jobs."

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the City of Lynchburg Office of Economic Development and Virginia's Region 2000 Partnership to secure the project. Governor McDonnell approved a $300,000 grant from the Governor's Opportunity Fund to assist Lynchburg with the project. Through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program, the Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide funding and services to support the company's recruitment and training activities.

"It is exciting to welcome the expansion of a new advanced manufacturer and assist in the creation of new jobs," said Lynchburg Economic Development Chair, Mark Varah. "The LEDA remains committed to attracting, retaining and expanding a diverse set of businesses to support and grow the Lynchburg economy."