News Summary
Lego has marked a significant milestone in constructing its new manufacturing facility in Chesterfield, Virginia, with a topping-out ceremony attended by over 1,300 guests. The factory, set to open in 2027, will span 1.7 million square feet and requires a $1 billion investment, generating 1,760 jobs. Currently, 500 employees are working at a temporary site as construction hits 35% completion. The facility aims to enhance supply chain efficiency and minimize environmental impacts, while also receiving substantial government support for job creation and investment.
Chesterfield, Virginia — Lego Celebrates Major Milestone for New US Factory
Lego has officially marked a significant milestone in the construction of its new manufacturing facility located in Chesterfield, Virginia, with a topping-out ceremony that took place recently. The event, attended by approximately 1,300 individuals including construction crews, company representatives, state and local officials, and Virginia’s Governor Glenn Youngkin, celebrated the progress on the factory which is set to open in 2027.
Key Details of the Chesterfield Facility
The 1.7 million-square-foot factory is situated at Meadowville Technology Park and is part of Lego’s strategic expansion into the North American market. The project represents a substantial investment of about $1 billion, underscoring Lego’s commitment to increasing local manufacturing capabilities. Once operational, the facility is projected to generate over 1,760 jobs over a ten-year period. Currently, more than 500 employees are working at a temporary facility in Chesterfield, preparing for the move into the new plant.
Construction Progress and Facility Features
The construction progress has reached approximately 35%, with the development encompassing 13 buildings, including facilities for molding, processing, packaging, an automated warehouse, as well as office spaces. The design of the site was largely guided by a master plan created in collaboration with Danish companies COWI and Arkitema Architects, and the main contractor for construction is Gray|Hourigan, a joint partnership based in Richmond and Kentucky.
Operational Goals and Environmental Impact
According to Lego’s general manager for Virginia, Jesus Ibañez, the new factory aims to improve supply chain efficiency for Lego’s U.S. customer base. It is expected to significantly cut down environmental impacts by reducing long-distance transportation emissions. The manufacturing plant will work to produce products primarily marked “Made in Virginia,” bolstering local manufacturing and logistics advantages.
Economic and Government Support
Virginia officials expressed enthusiasm about the economic benefits associated with the project. The company is eligible for a $56 million performance grant from the state’s Major Employment and Investment Project Approval Commission, which supports large-scale business investments that create jobs. The project received backing from Chesterfield Economic Development and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, both playing roles in facilitating the factory’s development.
Additional Infrastructure Developments and Future Plans
Beyond the factory, Lego has announced plans to open a $366 million warehouse and distribution center in Prince George, Virginia, to further streamline product logistics within the region. Additionally, the company intends to establish a retail Lego Store at Short Pump Town Center in Henrico County, reflecting its broader investment in the local market.
Global and North American Context
This Chesterfield facility marks Lego’s second manufacturing site in North America, the first being in Monterrey, Mexico. The expansion signifies Lego’s focus on strengthening its manufacturing footprint within the continent and optimizing its supply chain for the North American market.
Official Remarks and Outlook
Governor Glenn Youngkin highlighted the importance of the factory for Virginia’s economy, emphasizing its potential to generate local jobs and introduce Lego products with a “Made in Virginia” label to customers. As construction advances and the opening approaches in 2027, the facility is poised to play a crucial role in Lego’s North American operations and regional economic development.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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 RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake 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 North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
