Drake Extrusion expanding in Henry Co., creating 30 jobs

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HENRY COUNTY (WSLS10) - "An investment by Drake Extrusion of 6 million more dollars and the addition of 30 new employees here in beautiful Martinsville-Henry County," Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe excitedly explained as he announced that Drake Extrusion is expanding.

The specialty yarn producer, Drake Extrusion, has been in the county for 21 years and now employs more than 200 workers.

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Company President John Parkinson said this expansion will not only benefit the county now, but will allow the company to continue to grow and potentially create even more jobs in the future.

"We can completely replace the original investment that we had in Extrusion lines, which is 20 years old," Parkinson said, explaining how what the $6 million expansion would accomplish. "We will now have the most modern, technologically advanced and efficient polypropylene plant not only in the U.S. but in the world."

He said the last few years haven't been easy, as many companies in the industry down-sized or closed, but he said he had faith in the company's operation in Henry County and he is glad he stayed in business.

"This community has been very welcoming, very open and made me feel proud to be a part of this community. And, more importantly, proud for me to say that this is my home now," he emphasized.

Senator William Stanley also presented Drake Extrusion a $100,000 check from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission.

"The Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission approved $100,000 in tobacco region opportunity funds," said Senator Stanley.

Senator Stanley says Drake's investment is a vital part of restoring Southside to the forefront of Virginia's economy, both now and in the future.

Jim Adams, chairman of the Henry County Board of Supervisors, thanked Parkinson for his efforts to continue to expand Drake Extrusion, adding that the county would not be where it is today without that commitment.

"Much of what we have been able to accomplish during these tough economic times is a result of teamwork," Adams pointed out. "Successful economic development is all about teamwork and today's announcement is no exception."