U.K.-BASED AERONAUTICAL FABRIC ENGINEERING COMPANY LOCATES FIRST U.S. FACILITY IN HALIFAX COUNTY
Governor announces $2.5 million investment, 50 new jobs in Southside Virginia

RICHMOND- Governor Mark R. Warner today announced that Lindstrand USA, Inc., a manufacturer of inflatable structures such as flood barriers, portable bridges and aircraft hangars, will invest $2.5 million to open its first U.S. aeronautical fabric engineering and manufacturing facility in South Boston. The project will create 50 new jobs in the region. Virginia successfully competed with California, Kentucky and Texas for the project.

"Lindstrand USA has chosen Virginia for its first U.S. manufacturing facility thanks to the competitive incentives offered by the Commonwealth as well as the support and expertise offered by Virginia Tech's Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program in South Boston," Governor Warner said. "This project will provide excellent high-tech job opportunities for Southside Virginians as we continue to work to diversify the region's economy."

Lindstrand USA, Inc. is a subsidiary of Lindstrand Technologies Ltd., which is based in Shropshire, England. The Lindstrand team has worked as aeronautical fabric engineers on the same site for 26 years. With designs certified in 48 countries and a perfect safety record, the company is the world's most versatile manufacturer of aerostats, airships and hi-tech inflatable structures. Products designed by Lindstrand, USA are targeted for the homeland security, portable first aid and logistics, and recreation markets. Lindstrand is the exclusive supplier to all Formula 1 racing teams for fireproof racing car covers. The company is a three-time recipient of the award for fabric architecture from the Industrial Fabrics Association International.

"The South Boston location was selected due to the strong support and guidance provided by the Industrial Development Authority of Halifax County," said company official Jack Harrington. "Specific support was provided by Board Chairman John Cannon, Interim Executive Director Patsy Vaughan, the Halifax County Board of Supervisors and the Town of South Boston Manager Ted Daniel. Key support was also provided by the Office of Congressman Virgil Goode and the Commonwealth of Virginia's Department of Business Assistance. Additional benefits that attracted Dr. Lindstrand to the region include the financial and tax relief incentives offered by the Commonwealth of Virginia, Halifax County and the Town of South Boston, as well as the immediate availability of facilities that are appropriate for the large scale requirements associated with the manufacture of air ships and other inflatable structures. Further, the region offers a readily available work force with a strong work ethic."

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the Industrial Development Authority of Halifax County, the Virginia Employment Commission and Danville Community College to prepare the state's proposal and negotiate an incentive package to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Warner approved a $100,000 grant from the Governor's Opportunity Fund to support Halifax County with the project. The Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission approved $90,000 in Tobacco Region Opportunity Funds. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will partner with Danville Community College to provide training through its Workforce Services Program.

"This high-tech manufacturing firm will bring 21st century jobs to our area and provide continued diversity to our manufacturing base," said William Fitzgerald, Chairman of the Halifax County Board of Supervisors. "This company is helping to improve the economy and continued growth of Halifax County and Southside Virginia."

Lindstrand USA, Inc. www.lindstrandtech.com