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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Lawrence Brothers Expands Tazewell County, Virginia, Operations

04/16/2021
Lawrence Brothers, Inc., an industry leader in battery tray fabrication, will invest $3.2 million to expand its operation in Tazewell County, Virginia. The project is expected to create 40 new jobs.

The company will upgrade and modernize machinery and equipment to increase capacity and double production at its facility at 203 Lawrence Road.

“When my grandfather started this business, he did so to meet a need within the coal mining industry,” said Melanie Protti-Lawrence, President of Lawrence Brothers. “The Appalachian roots to coal run deep in my family, and Virginia has allowed us the opportunity to continue to pursue the dream of a family legacy. We pride ourselves in providing meaningful career opportunities with a comprehensive benefits package that draws from the best and brightest of the regional workforce, and allows us to retain that talent through equitable, inclusive, and empowering management. We hope to continue collaborating with regional partners to further enhance career development and job skills training.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with Tazewell County, the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority (VCEDA), the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSBFA), and the Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission to secure the project for Virginia. Lawrence Brothers, Inc. is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Job Creation Grant, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. Funding and services to support the company’s employee recruitment and training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

“Lawrence Brothers is an important employer and corporate partner in Tazewell County, and this new investment shows that Southwest Virginia’s business climate and workforce can support business growth over many decades,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “We are gratified Lawrence Brothers is investing in new machinery and equipment that will secure its continued success.”

Lawrence Brothers initially focused on manufacturing heavy machinery and equipment for the mining industry and has diversified its products to include motive power trays, ground support systems, and transformer components such as core frames and electrical control panels. These battery systems are found worldwide in equipment manufactured by JOY/Komatsu, General Electric, and others in many applications from mining operations to motive power and material handling.

“The VCEDA was pleased to provide a $400,000 loan to Lawrence Brothers, Inc. to assist with the purchase of equipment for this project,” said VCEDA Executive Director and General Counsel Jonathan S. Belcher. “This is the second time that we have assisted the company with expansions in the last two years, and Lawrence Brothers’ ability to diversify and grow its business is a true testament to the strength of its owners, employees, and the favorable business environment found in our region.”

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