“Print it, Pack it, Ship it” Means Something More When it is a Leading Industry Cluster
Packaging is a strong cluster in the Roanoke Region with 1,900 people working for 60 packaging firms. The printing and packing workforce does everything from design to packaging materials on metal, plastic, corrugated cardboard, and even food and beverage products. With strong connections to new research and stellar training programs, the Roanoke Region is a prime location for the printing and packaging industry.
Strategic Advantages
- In 2021, 10% of the Roanoke Region’s private sector workforce was employed in manufacturing, topping both Virginia (6.3%) and the U.S. (8.5%).
- Large labor force of more than 300,000.
- Capacity to produce high-end consumer packaging, coffee-table books, and plastic bags.
- Abundant utilities — fiber, water, gas, and electricity — with electric rates below the national average.
- Affordable, high-quality assistance is available through GENEDGE Alliance‘s network of field offices.
Higher Education Connection
Companies have access to research, resources, and training through regional higher education centers, so their technology and workforce are always performing at their peak.
- Virginia Tech Center for High Performance Manufacturing: Helps manufacturers cut costs, improve operations, and keep up with customer demand. Areas of specialization include: flexible automation, manufacturing logistics, production and information systems, rapid prototyping and tooling, and low-cost composite manufacturing.
- Advanced Manufacturing and Packaging Technology Program at Mountain Gateway Community College: Education partner of the Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI). Focus is on mechatronics — integration of mechanical, electronic, and software engineering — to control advanced automation and hybrid systems.
- Amatrol Inc. equipment and instructional modules.
We’re here to help
The Roanoke Regional Partnership is a one-stop-shop for learning, evaluating, and connecting with the Alleghany, Botetourt, Franklin, and Roanoke counties, cities of Covington, Roanoke, and Salem, and the town of Vinton.
Let us help you find the right site or building for companies, create custom research for your business decision, and connect you with the people and services that will help you see why the Roanoke Region is the right place.