Friday, August 12, 2011

TREAD To Expand in Botetourt County

Botetourt Administrator Gerry Burgess (left) Accepts $100,000 check from Gov. Bob McDonnell for the TREAD expansion.

TREAD Corp., a manufacturer of bulk handling equipment for the explosives industry will invest $5 million to expand its operations in Botetourt County, creating 100 new jobs. The expansion will take place at the EastPark Commerce Center.

Speaking at a news conference today at Greenfield Education and Training Center, Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell said, “Botetourt County has been home to TREAD Corporation’s corporate, sales and support, and manufacturing operations since 2004. The company has experienced tremendous growth operating equipment all over the world from Botetourt, and appreciates the ample workforce found in the region. We are thrilled that TREAD will continue to expand.”

TREAD plans to begin its expansion by the third quarter of 2011 and create at least 100 jobs within 36 months. The average wage for the new jobs will be $17.50 per hour plus benefits. The project’s investment will be a minimum of $5 million, of which approximately $4.75 million will be in building and infrastructure with the balance in machinery and tools within 36 months. Square footage of the expansion, including manufacturing space, staging area and parking, has yet to be determined.

The new jobs are primarily production oriented with skills focused on but not limited to welding and mechatronics. “Our location in Botetourt County strategically positions the company to service the global explosives equipment market," says Phil Bortz, vice president, worldwide sales. "TREAD is fortunate to have a skilled work force, which when coupled with economic opportunities, provides the resources to grow the business and serve our customers’ needs.”

TREAD, a privately held company founded in 1957, has operated from its current facility since 2004. The company, with 170 current employees, has added about 65 jobs since June 2010.

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