Hardwood flooring manufacturer to create 58 new jobs in Patrick County

PATRICK COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) – On Wednesday, Gov. Ralph Northam announced that Canadian-based Prolam, LLC, a manufacturer of high-quality hardwood floors for commercial trucks and dry van trailers, is planning to invest $12.8 million in Patrick County to establish its first U.S. manufacturing operation in the former Ten Oaks satellite facility on Dobyns Road.

The project would create 58 new high-paying jobs and add 50-percent to the company’s total manufacturing capacity.

Prolam is also committing to source at least 65-percent of its timber from the Commonwealth’s robust hardwood resource, supporting regional loggers and forestland owners through the purchase of more than $20.5 million in Virginia-grown hardwoods over the next three years.

“This project is a great win for Virginia’s hardwood loggers and forestland owners. Forestry continues to be an important pillar of communities across the Commonwealth because industry leaders recognize the benefits of our abundant natural resources, extensive transportation network, and unparalleled workforce. We thank Prolam for locating its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Southern Virginia and look forward to a long partnership with the company.”

Gov. Ralph Northam (D-VA)

Prolam is headquartered in Quebec, Canada and is a leading producer of commercial trailer flooring.

The company supplies the top U.S. trailer manufacturers who are experiencing record growth from the surge in online commerce and the associated increase in shipping.

Prolam’s new Patrick County facility will directly benefit Virginia’s hardwood loggers and forestland owners by providing a market for lower grade red and white oak lumber not suited for residential flooring or cooperages.

The company employs a number of proprietary technologies that offer superior moisture resistance, strength, and durability while not sacrificing commercial trailer weight.

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Service (VDACS) and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with Patrick County and the Patrick County Economic Development Authority to secure this project for the Commonwealth.

Governor Northam approved a $100,000 grant from the Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Fund, which Patrick County will match with local funds. Funding and services to support the company’s job creation will be provided through VEDP’s Virginia Job Investment Program.