Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, September 14, 1995 TAG: 9509140054
SECTION: BUSINESS PAGE: B-8 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: JEFF STURGEON STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
A United Parcel Service computerized package-tracking and telephone information center expected to employ 1,000 in Newport News is considered the largest single source of new jobs, state industry officials said in a new report.
It shows that the Roanoke region, consisting of nine counties and five cities, will gain 516 positions if the seven growing companies meet hiring projections, state officials said. A report in early October will detail activity during the second quarter in Gov. George Allen's 18 economic development advisory council districts.
The report for January-March, which was released later than expected, included the expansion of Fleetwood Homes of Virginia in Franklin County, expected to create 200 jobs; a decision by Rubatex Corp. to move its corporate offices from Bedford to Roanoke County and bring 70 jobs; Transkrit Corp.'s expansion in Salem, expected to create 65 jobs; and a proposed Jacuzzi Whirlpool Bath factory in Salem with 150 planned jobs. Jacuzzi has delayed production at least until next year.
The list also includes a 25-employee expansion at Hollingsworth & Vose Co. of Floyd County and a new plant, employing six, run by Synchrony Inc. of Roanoke County, though the timing of the latter project is in question. Synchrony relocated from Salem last year, but the business formed in 1993, an employee said.
A seventh growing company in the area demanded that state officials keep its identity secret.
Statewide, 52 companies announced projects expected to cost $541 million, an increase of 185 percent from the same period last year.
by CNB