RICHMOND, Va. — Interstate Group LLC, a manufacturer of cargo, dump, and utility trailers, announced plans to invest $8.9 million to expand its manufacturing facility in Giles County, Virginia, a project expected to create 46 new jobs in the New River Valley.
The expansion will support growing market demand for the company’s trailer products while strengthening Virginia’s advanced manufacturing sector.
“Interstate Group’s decision to expand in Giles County underscores why Virginia continues to be a top destination for American manufacturers,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger. “This multi-million-dollar investment will create good-paying jobs in the New River Valley and strengthen the Commonwealth’s manufacturing base.”
Supporting Manufacturing Growth in the New River Valley
State leaders say the project highlights the competitive advantages Virginia offers manufacturers, including access to skilled labor, strategic logistics connections, and strong economic development support.
“Virginia’s manufacturing competitiveness is driven by companies like Interstate Group that value skilled talent, strategic location and a supportive business environment,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery. “By expanding in Giles County, Interstate Group will meet growing demand while creating meaningful opportunities for families across the New River Valley.”
The company’s investment will include automation upgrades, new machinery, and facility improvements designed to increase production capacity and improve operational efficiency.
Expanding East Coast Production
Headquartered in Nampa, Idaho, Interstate Group manufactures a wide range of professional and consumer-grade trailers, including cargo, dump, and utility models. The company distributes its products exclusively through the TrailersPlus dealership network.
Company leadership said the Giles County expansion will allow Interstate Group to increase product availability throughout the Eastern United States.
“Interstate Group is excited to expand our operations and continue investing in Giles County and the Commonwealth of Virginia,” said John Whitman, Chief Operating Officer of Interstate Group. “This investment will help us meet growing demand while creating new jobs and long-term opportunities for the community.”
Local and State Partners Support Expansion
Local officials emphasized the company’s role as both an employer and community partner in the region.
“We are grateful to Interstate Trailers for their continued investment and job creation in our region,” said Chris McKlarney, Giles County Administrator. “They have become a valued part of our community and continue to demonstrate their commitment through both job creation and local engagement.”
State legislators also praised the investment as a sign of continued economic momentum in the New River Valley.
- “The Interstate Group’s decision to expand in Giles County speaks highly to the strength of our region’s workforce,” said Delegate Jason Ballard. “This investment reinforces that the New River Valley is a great place to locate and grow a business.”
- “This is a wonderful investment for Giles County and will provide much-needed jobs for the region,” added State Senator Travis Hackworth.
State Incentives and Workforce Support
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked alongside Giles County to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Spanberger approved a $200,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist with the expansion.
VEDP will also support the company’s workforce development through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which provides funding and consultative services for recruitment and training programs tied to new job creation.
