News Summary
Lego has celebrated the topping-out ceremony of a $1 billion manufacturing facility in Chesterfield, Virginia, scheduled to open in 2027. Spanning 1.7 million square feet, the factory is expected to create over 1,760 jobs and enhance supply chain efficiency. Governor Glenn Youngkin emphasized the factory’s role in fostering creativity and its positive impact on the community. The project has garnered financial support, highlighting its importance to the local economy and employment goals, alongside Lego’s expansion plans within the state.
Chesterfield, Virginia – Lego Celebrates Topping-Out Ceremony for $1 Billion Factory Set to Open in 2027
Lego has officially celebrated the topping-out ceremony for its new $1 billion manufacturing facility in Chesterfield, Virginia, which is set to begin operations in 2027. The factory, spanning 1.7 million square feet, is strategically positioned at Meadowville Technology Park and is anticipated to significantly enhance supply chain efficiency for customers across the United States.
The ceremony drew an attendance of approximately 1,300 individuals, including construction workers, Lego employees, state and local officials, as well as Governor Glenn Youngkin.
Important Developments
During the event, Governor Youngkin highlighted the factory’s role in fostering creativity among children, emphasizing its broader impact on the community. Jesus Ibañez, the general manager for Lego in Virginia, pointed out that the facility will not only streamline shipping logistics but also reduce the environmental footprint associated with long-distance transport of goods.
The factory is projected to create over 1,760 jobs in the Chesterfield area over the next ten years. Currently, more than 500 employees are already contributing from a temporary facility located at 1600 Ruffin Mill Road. These employees are expected to transition to the new factory upon its completion.
The construction progress of the project is currently at 35% and includes the development of 13 buildings dedicated to various functions, such as molding, processing, and packaging operations. Additionally, the facility will feature an automated warehouse and office spaces to support its operations.
Financial Overview and Support
Lego’s significant investment in the Chesterfield factory is further supplemented by a potential $56 million performance grant from the General Assembly’s Major Employment and Investment Project Approval Commission. This financial boost underscores the importance of the project to both the local economy and the state’s strategic employment goals.
The project has received backing from multiple economic development organizations, including Chesterfield Economic Development and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. The general contractor for Lego’s factory is Gray|Hourigan, a joint venture combining Richmond-based Hourigan and Kentucky-based Gray. Notably, the Danish companies COWI and Arkitema Architects have played a key role in crafting the master plan and design of the facility.
Future Plans and Community Impact
In addition to the Chesterfield factory, Lego also announced plans for a $366 million warehouse and distribution facility in Prince George, Virginia, along with a new retail Lego Store at Short Pump Town Center in Henrico. These initiatives indicate a strategic expansion of Lego’s operations within the state.
The establishment of the Chesterfield factory marks Lego’s second manufacturing facility in North America, following its initial operation located in Monterrey, Mexico. This new facility aligns with the company’s ongoing commitment to increasing its manufacturing capabilities within the United States while ensuring that products can be labeled “Made in Virginia.”
Overall, the topping-out ceremony signifies not only a vital step forward for Lego but also a meaningful investment in the local economy and job market in Chesterfield and surrounding areas. With its planned completion in 2027, the factory is expected to play a crucial role in meeting the growing demands of Lego’s customer base while promoting economic growth in Virginia.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Richmond BizSense
- Wikipedia: Chesterfield County, Virginia
- WRIC
- Google Search: Lego factory Chesterfield Virginia
- Virginia Business
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Manufacturing
- 12 On Your Side
- Google News: Lego Chesterfield factory
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
