Interstate Group to expand Virginia manufacturing facility
In a move signaling robust growth for the New River Valley, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger announced March 3 that Interstate Group LLC will invest $8.9 million to expand its manufacturing operations in Giles County. This strategic expansion is a direct response to rising market demand and is projected to create 46 new jobs within the Commonwealth.
Interstate Group LLC, headquartered in Nampa, Idaho, specializes in a diverse range of professional and consumer-grade cargo, dump, and utility trailers. These products are distributed exclusively through the TrailersPlus dealership network.
The decision to scale operations at the Giles County facility is specifically designed to bolster the company’s product footprint across the East Coast, according to the statement. To facilitate this increased capacity, the multi-million-dollar investment will be directed toward significant facility upgrades, the acquisition of new machinery, and the integration of advanced automation technologies.
“Interstate Group’s decision to expand in Giles County underscores why Virginia continues to be a top destination for American manufacturers,” Spanberger said, highlighting that the investment will strengthen the region’s advanced manufacturing sector. Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery further noted that Virginia's competitiveness is fueled by a supportive business environment and a highly skilled talent pool.
John Whitman, COO of Interstate Group, expressed the company's commitment to the region, stating that the investment allows them to meet the "growing demand for simple, reliable cargo, dump, and utility trailers" while creating vital new opportunities for the community.
Regional leaders, including Giles County Administrator Chris McKlarney and Delegate Jason Ballard, praised the manufacturer for its role as a dedicated community partner and for proving that the New River Valley is an ideal location for industrial scaling.
The expansion project was secured through a collaborative effort between Giles County and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). Financial support includes a $200,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund approved by the Governor. Additionally, Interstate Group will utilize the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which provides state-funded consultative services and funding for employee recruitment and training.