fund the expansion.
QualiChem, Inc. will invest $9 million to expand operations in the City of Salem, Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced last week. The project includes acquiring a 48,550-square-foot facility and will create 12 new jobs.
The company, a producer of metalworking fluids and provider of water treatment blending services, will relocate its administrative offices and laboratory operations to a newly acquired office building at 616 Idaho St. in Salem. The move will allow for increased production at its existing location at 2003 Salem Industrial Drive.
“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,” Youngkin said. “We’re proud to support a company that continues to grow and thrive here in Virginia.”
Founded in 1990, QualiChem serves customers in 30 countries. The company entered the metalworking fluid market in 2004 and has since grown through six expansions, all within the City of Salem.
“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.”
City of Salem Mayor Renée Turk praised the company’s expansion and the reuse of the Idaho Street building, which has been vacant since 2016.
“We’re equally enthused that this expansion includes new corporate offices,” Turk said. “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.”
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the City of Salem and the Roanoke Regional Partnership to secure the project. VEDP will support the company’s job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program, which provides funding and consultative services to support recruitment and training.
“Congratulations to QualiChem, a company that has expanded many times successfully in the City of Salem,” said John Hull, executive director of the Roanoke Regional Partnership. “QualiChem’s continued expansion is evidence of a supportive, business-forward environment.”
Lawmakers also praised the investment.
“We are thrilled QualiChem is further investing and expanding in Salem to provide 12 more quality jobs,” said Sen. David Suetterlein.
“QualiChem has been a fantastic corporate partner for over 35 years, and I look forward to continuing that partnership,” said Del. Joe McNamara.
The company is a two-time graduate of the Virginia Leaders in Export Trade Program, completing the program in 2016 and again in 2024.
