Chesterfield Business Blog

Bon Secours to Build a $30 million Ambulatory Care Campus in Chesterfield County, Virginia

2009-11-10T09:06:00.003-05:00

A new $30 million Bon Secours ambulatory care campus will bring an influx of capital investment and 100 new jobs to northwest Chesterfield County in addition to increased availability of ambulatory services for the county’s fast growing population.

The new campus of Bon Secours will be located at Watkins Centre, at the corner of Route 288 and Midlothian Turnpike, just 4.5 miles from Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center. Scheduled completion for Phase I of the project is 2011.

Chesterfield.gov and GRPVA.com Redesigned

2009-07-13T13:06:00.003-04:00

Chesterfield County government and the Greater Richmond Partnership have both launched redesigned web sites.

Chesterfield County, Virginia is a thriving, affluent, suburban community located in the Richmond, Virginia metropolitan area.

The Greater Richmond Partnership is a regional economic development organization which the counties of Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, and the City of Richmond, Virginia.

Main Street at Westchester Commons Ready for Tenants

2009-06-30T16:05:00.005-04:00

The pedestrian-friendly section of Westchester Commons named "Main Street" is now available for leasing. Anchored by Regal Cinemas on one end and Gold's Gym on the other, the Main Street retail space is divided by tree-lined sidewalks and public gathering places. Books-A-Million has already opened it's doors and Noodles & Company is expected to open soon.

Gold’s Gym Opens at Westchester Commons

2009-06-26T14:50:00.005-04:00

The Midlothian Exchange has posted an article by Erika Maguire about the grand opening of Gold’s Gym at Westchester Commons on Midlothian Turnpike in the Watkins Center development. Erika writes,

Gold’s Gym, located in Westchester Commons on Midlothian Turnpike, is now taking the movie experience to the next level, substituting reclining chairs with treadmills and ellipticals.

Known as their cardio cinema, Gold’s Gym is now providing their members with full-length movies during their workouts. The movies, which change everyday, are played in a dimly-lit room filled with various cardio equipment for members’ enjoyment. Yet this feature is only one of the unique amenities offered by the gym...

>>> Read the entire story from the Midlothian Exchange here.

New Federal Identity Theft Laws Puts Employers At Risk

2009-06-26T14:25:00.002-04:00

Identity Theft Seminar Offered Regarding FACTA and the New “Red Flags Rule”

Identify theft is one of the fastest growing crimes, and it is reported that 1 of every 4 Americans will suffer some form of identify theft.

The US government passed new laws recently that places responsibility squarely on the shoulders of companies to protect their employees’ and their customers’ personal information. Consequently business and/or business owners are liable to ensure that proper steps are taken to protect the identities of their employees and customers.

Starting August 1, 2009, millions of small businesses that extend credit or defer payments for goods and services will be subject to a new set of rules under the Fair and Accurate Transaction Act aimed at helping curb identify theft. The new rules — known as the FACTA Red Flags Rules — are basically federally mandated precautions certain businesses must take to protect customers from identity theft crimes.

Whether it is social security numbers, check information, credit card information, medical data, or the like, if it is mishandled, lost or stolen, it can have a serious impact on the business.

Legions of small businesses that will now be covered — including auto dealers, jewelers, furniture companies, mortgage brokers, doctors, dentists and many others — are still unaware of this looming regulatory issue. Business owners who are aware are most likely confused about what they’ll have to do. And forget about an extension. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the enforcing agency, already stretched the compliance deadline, originally set for last November.

The coming FACTA Red Flags Rules require covered businesses to create a process for detecting so-called “Red Flags” in identity verification, such as:

Discrepancies in address history
Fraud alerts on credit reports
Suspicious use of Social Security numbers
Inactive accounts that suddenly become active
Credit-freeze notifications
Credit reports with suspicious activity patterns
Notices from identity theft victims or law agencies, among others.

A number of consulting firms offer guidance on how to comply with the new FACTA Red Flags Rule. One such company is The Risk Management Group. Village Bank and The Risk Management Group will be holding an Identity Theft Seminar on June 30, 2009 at the Village Bank Community Room, 15521 Midlothian Turnpike. The Seminar runs from 7:30 – 8:30 AM and is free of charge. For additional information and to register contact Richard Swed at Richard@TheRiskMgmtGroup.com or call 804-840-2918.

TopNotchRichmond.com: One of Chesterfield's Newest Businesses

2009-06-08T16:32:00.004-04:00

TopNotchRichmond.com is one of Chesterfield County's newest businesses. The region’s new online referral resource business is locally owned and operated by a recently laid-off worker. By taking control of his career and pursuing his passion, Richmonders now have free access to tried, trusted and tested service companies.

Tom McCormick, owner of TopNotchRichmond.com says, “Consumers are more consciences now than ever of how they spend their hard earned cash and businesses are looking for that extra edge to get the work and stay in business. TopNotchRichmond.com creates a win-win for both.” He added, “Consumers are too often disappointed in the quality of their experience; whether it’s home repair, having a car serviced or hiring a photographer for those long overdue family pictures. Top Notch Richmond does the leg work, helping the consumer make better choices, while generating more referrals for Top Notch area businesses.”

After 20 years in management within a high tech manufacturing environment, McCormick understood the importance of the customer, of quality and of continuous improvement. He also recognized these qualities were too often lacking in the companies providing everyday consumer services, such as home remodeling and repairs, auto service, photographers, etc.

After several months of planning and preparation, McCormick has now launched TopNotchRichmond.com, the online referral resource that promotes only those companies who excel in the area of customer service quality. Top Notch Richmond screens and certifies companies based on specific, measurable quality criteria. Only those that make the cut are listed on TopNotchRichmond.com. Consumers now have a third party advocate while top notch service companies get the recognition and visibility they deserve.

CED and Atlantic Constructors Announce Celebration

2009-05-06T16:59:00.005-04:00

Chesterfield Economic Development and this year’s master sponsor Atlantic Constructors, Inc. join the Commonwealth of Virginia in celebrating Business Appreciation Week throughout the Commonwealth. Coordinated each year by the Virginia Department of Business Assistance, Business Appreciation Week is scheduled for May 10th – 16th, 2009.

Learn More >>>

Chesterfield Airport is an 'economic machine'

2009-04-02T09:21:00.004-04:00

The Midlothian Exchange has posted an article written by Eric Millirons that describes the economic value of the Chesterfield County Airport to our community. Eric writes,

Cloistered behind a large stand of evergreen trees, off of State Route 10, just north of Route 288, the airport is one of Chesterfield’s truly hidden economic gems. It ranks fourth in the number of planes based at a Virginia airport. While state studies have shown that its economic impact is in the millions of dollars, there are more discernable factors that display its importance. Looking only at the personal property tax paid on the 130 or so planes based at Chesterfield, the result is over $400,000 for the county’s General Fund coffers. When this information is coupled with the employment generated by the county and Dominion Aviation employees, numbering in excess of 100 with over 90 percent of them being county residents, its worth to our economy becomes even more evident.

>>> Read the entire story from the Midlothian Exchange here.

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NBC 12 Covers Opening of Westchester Commons

2009-03-06T10:56:00.002-05:00

Beth Danziger of NBC 12 reported yesterday about the opening of Westchester Commons at Route 288 and Midlothian Turnpike later this week. Her report included an interview with Chesterfield Economic Development director Will Davis.

Read the story and view the video on the NBC12.com web site >>>

Westchester Commons Opening This Week

2009-03-03T09:47:00.004-05:00

The Richmond-Times Dispatch had an article in the Metro Business section yesterday about the opening of Westchester Commons this week. Times-Dispatch writer Louis Llovio reports on the transition of of the area from a rural to urban area.

When John Watkins looks out across the wide open landscape that used to be his playground, he doesn't see Westchester Commons, one of the largest retail developments in the Richmond area.

The Republican state senator from Powhatan County points over a half-built row of retail stores. "That is where my parents lived. Where I grew up."

Then he turns to another spot a few hundred yards north, this one between two buildings. "That's where my house was. Where I raised three kids," Watkins said.

The land has changed since Watkins was boy.

Acres of trees spread out as far as the eye could see back then. He and his cousins camped out in the woods and had the run of the place.

His family had owned the property since 1876. Watkins Nursery operated there before moving to Amelia County.

Now, the land has been stripped of those trees and is becoming one of the Richmond area's newest shopping centers.

Westchester Commons is the retail component of the Watkins Centre development at state Route 288 and Midlothian Turnpike in Chesterfield County.

Watkins Centre was zoned in 2006 for 1.3 million square feet of retail space and 2.1 million square feet for offices on 640 acres.

Read the entire article on the Times-Dispatch web site >>>

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Call for Nominations - Chesterfield County First Choice Business Awards

2009-02-10T13:15:00.002-05:00

Each year Chesterfield County Virginia honors local companies that contribute to the county’s economy and its citizens. The intent is to give recognition to businesses that consistently contribute to the community by giving back to the citizens of Chesterfield through community service, create and deliver products or services to its customers which are innovative, is a leader in valuing its employees, and upholds the principles and standards of ethical business practices.

Do you know a deserving Chesterfield County company? Then nominate them for a 2009 First Choice Business Award!

Nominate a Company >>>

RichmondJobNet.com Launched by GRP

2009-02-04T08:16:00.004-05:00

The Greater Richmond Partnership has developed an online centralized career resource center, RichmondJobNet.com, organized to simplify the job search process using a comprehensive listing of area job boards, tools and tips for job seekers including resume, cover letter and interview preparation. Resources for those interested in starting their own business are available as is a comprehensive career event calendar including job fairs and educational opportunities.

Regional Quality of Life Video Released

2009-01-29T22:33:00.003-05:00

Chesterfield County's southern regional economic development partner, The Virginia's Gateway Region, has teamed up with Dominion Virginia Power to create a quality of life video showcasing some of the amenities the region has to offer. Quality of life is important to prospective companies as they look to expand or relocate their business.

Chesterfield Firms Part of International Presence in Richmond

2009-01-19T12:04:00.006-05:00

The Richmond-Times Dispatch has an article in the Metro Business section today about international companies doing business in the area. Several companies located Chesterfield County are among those referenced by Times-Dispatch staff writer John Reid Blackwell.

Foreign-based food companies seem to have a particular taste for the Richmond area.

Fiorucci Foods, an Italian meats company, has had a plant in Chesterfield County since the late 1980s. So has Maruchan Inc., a maker of those instant noodles that so many college students depend on for quick, inexpensive meals.

Goya Foods Inc., an international seller of Latin American cuisine, opened a $5.1 million distribution center in Prince George County in 2006 to ship some of its more than 1,500 products to markets in the Southeast, where demand for its products has been growing.

Mother Parkers Tea & Coffee Inc., a Canadian-based company, announced plans in April to open a coffee-roasting facility in Ashland that will employ 85 people.

Last week, Sabra Dipping Co., a kosher, vegetarian food manufacturer, broke ground on a $59.3 million food-processing plant just north of Colonial Heights. Sabra is a joint venture between PepsiCo and Strauss Group, Israel's second-largest food and beverage company. The plant is expected to employ 260 people when it opens by mid-2010.

For food companies, it is often more practical and economical to manufacture products closer to their end markets, said Will Davis, Chesterfield's economic-development director.

"A $60 million investment and 260 jobs, even in an up economy, is a home run," said Pat Gottschalk, Virginia's secretary of commerce and trade. "Frankly, in a down economy, it is a grand-slam home run."

The entire Richmond area benefits from geographic advantages.

"Richmond was a very good location for us, because it is next to the port, and we import everything from Austria to Norfolk," Roos said. "It is a very central location."

Read the entire article on the Times-Dispatch web site. >>

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Sabra Breaks Ground on New Chesterfield Plant

2009-01-14T17:22:00.002-05:00

Sabra Dipping Co. held a ground breaking ceremony on Tuesday, January 14, 2009 to celebrate the start of construction on its new $60 million manufacturing facility in Chesterfield County, Virginia.

More information is available on Chesterfield Business News. >>

Sabra Dipping Co. targeted, reeled in

2009-01-14T07:49:00.005-05:00

John Reid Blackwell has written an article in today's Richmond-Times Dispatch about the economic development effort that went into helping Sabra Dipping Co. select Chesterfield County for its new food manufacturing facility. The company will hold a ground breaking ceremony today to kick off construction of the 110,000-square-foot plant in the Ruffin Mill Industrial Park.

In the article, Blackwell writes,

The international flavor of food companies in the Richmond area was a key ingredient in attracting the region's newest maker of cultural cuisine, local economic developers said.

State and local economic development officials worked for about a year to land an investment by Sabra Dipping Co., a maker of kosher, vegetarian foods such as salads and hummus.

Read the entire article here on the Times-Dispatch web site. >>

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Olympic Training Facility in Chesterfield Proposed

2008-12-24T09:58:00.006-05:00

The Richmond-Times Dispatch has an article today about a proposed new Olympic training facility in Chesterfield County.

Construction on a $100 million, 50-acre Olympic training facility in the Waterford Business Center in Chesterfield County could begin in February.

The project at Route 288 and Powhite Parkway, announced yesterday at Chesterfield's Department of Economic Development, is the brainchild of Steve Burton, CEO and chairman of SportsQuest, a company he developed for this purpose.

Read the entire article at timesdispatch.com>>

Building Progresses at Westchester Commons

2008-12-19T12:30:00.001-05:00

American Infrastructure, the site contractor for Westchester Commons, has once again provided to Chesterfield Economic Development recent aerial photographs of the project. Westchester Commons is being developed by Zaremba Metropolitan Midlothian, LLC. Since June, a great deal of progress has been made on this project.

Westchester Commons is a 900,000 square foot retail shopping center located at the northwest quadrant of Route 60 and Route 288. Westchester Commons is part of the 640 acre Watkins Centre mixed use development.

Westchester Commons will consist of large, national retailers including Target, Petco, Jo-Ann Fabric and Regal Cinemas around the perimeter of the center, with a concentration of small shops along an interior, pedestrian-friendly Main Street. Books-A-Million will be opening a new store at one end of Main Street. And Gold’s Gym is building a new 45,000 square-foot, $8 million facility near the other end of Main Street. A grand opening scheduled in the spring of 2009.

Wako Chemicals USA: Little firm, big responsibility

2008-12-15T08:11:00.011-05:00

The Richmond-Times Dispatch has an article in today's Metro Business section about the important work going on at Wako Chemicals USA here in Chesterfield County.

The somewhat arcane but vital business of keeping you alive is thriving in Chesterfield County.

In a nondescript building off an industrial stretch of Bellwood Road between Interstate 95 and the James River, a Japanese chemical company is busy producing a fine, white powder used to test the safety of injectable medications and artificial joints.

Read the entire article at timesdispatch.com>>

Alstom Power Expanding Chesterfield County Plant

2008-12-05T17:10:00.003-05:00

Alstom Power, Inc., held a groundbreaking celebration on December 3, 2008 for its new Blade Manufacturing Facility at their Willis Road plant in Chesterfield County.

The new 20,000 square foot facility will enable them to manufacture turbine blades from 2” to 38” in length. They are currently able to manufacture approximately 7,000 blades each year at their present facility but expect that this expansion will allow them to more than double their annual blade production.

Alstom opened its operations in Chesterfield County in the early 1970’s and have undergone several expansions. They currently employ over 150 employees at the Willis Road plant and expect to add 25 new employees over the next 36 months as their blade production capacity increases. The $7.5 million expansion is scheduled to be complete in early June 2009.

Richmond BizSense Covers Details of Sabra Project

2008-12-05T17:04:00.002-05:00

Richmond BizSense has a good article about the deal that brought Sabra Dipping Company to Chesterfield County.

http://www.richmondbizsense.com/big-biz/543-how-hummus-arrived-in-va.html

Sabra Dipping Company To Open New Plant In Chesterfield

2008-11-19T14:59:00.007-05:00

Sabra Dipping Company will open a state-of-the-art food processing plant in Chesterfield County. The plant will produce award-winning Sabra branded dips and spreads including the country’s best-selling Sabra hummus and vegetable dips. Current projections estimate 260 new jobs will result from the facility, beginning in mid 2010. Chesterfield County successfully competed against two other states for the project. The 110,000 square foot facility will be located on 49 acres in the Ruffin Mill Industrial Park at the Walthall interchange off Interstate 95.

More information can be found on Chesterfield Business News.

Better Business Bureau Moving to Chesterfield County

2008-11-19T12:22:00.003-05:00

The Better Business Bureau of Central Virginia has leased 7,000 sf. in the Moorefield V building located on 720 Moorefield Park Drive in Chesterfield County. The bureau, along with 25-30 employees is relocating from Richmond and will take occupancy in January 2009.

Chesterfield Firms Part of Export Boom

2008-09-09T06:37:00.003-04:00

The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports today that exports from Virginia companies have reached an all-time high. The article mentions two Chesterfield county firms, Premier Pet Products and Filtrona Richmond, as companies benefiting from this export boom.

>>Read the Richmond Times-Dispatch article

German Automotive Supplier Will Open Facility in Chesterfield

2008-09-04T08:07:00.006-04:00

Chesterfield Economic Development has announced that ept Automotive has leased 46,300 square feet of manufacturing space in River's Bend in Chesterfield County for a new facility to produce electrical connectors for the automotive industry.

The $5 million manufacturing operation will open in October and is expected to create more than 50 jobs during the next three years.

ept (Electronic Precision Technology) automotive is a subsidiary of ept GmbH, Peiting, Germany, located about 60 miles southwest of Munich. A global supplier to the automotive industry for integrated solutions for electrical connection technology, the firm has more than 700 employees.