German manufacturer to add 100+ jobs in Chesterfield

Germany-based Weidmüller Group will invest $16.4 million to expand its operations in Chesterfield County, creating more than 100 full-time jobs, Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced Tuesday.

Weidmüller Group provides smart industrial connectivity products and solutions that connect and automate electrical power and signaling for components, machines and installations worldwide. It will increase its engineering and production footprint in Chesterfield, adding 24,000 feet to its facility at 821 Southlake Blvd. The facility currently has 186 employees and is Weidmüller’s only location in Virginia.

The expansion is expected to be complete in the late second quarter or early third quarter of 2024, and it will allow the company to meet growing North American customer demand. Founded in 1850, Weidmüller Group been operating in Chesterfield for more than 50 years. It has production sites, sales companies and representatives in more than 80 countries and has more than 6,000 employees.

“Weidmüller’s expansion in the United States cements our commitment to bring engineering and manufacturing closer to North American partners and customers,” Weidmüller USA President Bernd Schröder said in a statement. “By deepening our partnerships with Chesterfield County and the state of Virginia, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to expand in a state known for a talented workforce, strong logistical benefits with access to Virginia ports, and strategically located to best service our customers.”

Virginia competed with other states for the project. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Chesterfield County to secure the project. Youngkin approved a $488,450 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Chesterfield County with the project. The company is eligible to receive benefits from the Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone grant program.

“We want ‘made in America’ to mean ‘made in Virginia,’ and Weidmüller Group has been manufacturing its products for more than five decades in Chesterfield County,” Youngkin said. “Their longevity and continued investment are a powerful testament to the advantages a Virginia location offers international companies seeking growth in North American markets, and we look forward to Weidmüller’s continued success.”

Support for Weidmüller’s job creation will be provided through the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program.