Millions invested to expand Salem manufacturing facility

SALEM, Va. (WDBJ/Governor’s Office Release) - A chemical company will invest $9 million to expand its operations into a 48,550-square-foot facility in the City of Salem, according to Governor Glenn Younkin.

QualiChem is a producer of metalworking fluids “used for production and fabrication of metal components for industries such as aerospace, medical and automotive. It also includes a division for water treatment blending services,” according to Youngkin.

The project is set to create 12 jobs.

QualiChem will move its administrative offices and laboratory operations into a newly-acquired office building at 616 Idaho Street in Salem, according to the Governor’s office. This move will free up space in QualiChem’s existing facility at 2003 Salem Industrial Drive to increase production of metalworking fluids to meet industry demands.

“Our new headquarters is the latest step in our multi-year investment plan to support our continued growth in North America and around the world,” said QualiChem President Tim Davis. “The facility will include modern office space and a world-class laboratory designed to optimize daily collaboration, enhance innovation and attract top talent. This move represents our commitment to providing the highest level of performance for our customers.”

“The City of Salem is proud of QualiChem, a home-grown company, and their most recent announcement to further grow their footprint here in the community,” said Salem Mayor Renée Turk. “We’re equally enthused that this expansion includes new corporate offices with their acquisition of a 48,000-square-foot building vacant since 2016. Their merging of leadership, administration, and research and development teams into this future vibrant space will further support QualiChem’s talent attraction efforts while adding to the success stories of economic development in the region.”

“QualiChem’s decision to expand right here in Salem speaks volumes about the Commonwealth’s competitive business climate, highly skilled workforce and strong local partnerships,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “We’re proud to support a company that continues to grow and thrive here in Virginia.”