Chesterfield Sees Growth: Commercial Fridge Maker Launches New Manufacturing and Warehouse Operations

October 23, 2025

Dover Food Retail Invests $25 Million in Chesterfield County Expansion

Chesterfield County, Virginia, is becoming a key hub for Dover Food Retail as the company accelerates its growth strategy, shifting investment away from California and towards the East Coast. The move signifies a notable boost for the local economy and workforce.

Manufacturing Shift and New Warehouse Facility

This week marked a dual celebration in Chesterfield County: the opening of a new 500,000-square-foot warehouse at 16401 Walthall Industrial Parkway and the triumphant relocation of production lines for the Anthony brand products. Production has moved from a facility in Sylmar, California, to a 350,000-square-foot manufacturing center at 1301 Battery Brooke Parkway, co-located with Hillphoenix operations.

The broader project encompasses a $25.3 million investment, largely directed toward the purchase of cutting-edge production equipment for the Battery Brooke facility. this expansion is projected to generate over 320 new employment opportunities within the county, adding to Dover’s existing local workforce of 1,100 employees. Dover has maintained a presence in Chesterfield County since 1995.

Local and State Support Fuel Growth

Local leaders and State officials alike lauded the expansion as a win for Chesterfield County. Board of Supervisors Vice Chairman Mark Miller emphasized Dover’s three-decade commitment to the community. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and Dover President Paul Sindoni were also present at the ribbon-cutting event and shared remarks detailing the partnership.

The project received crucial support from the Virginia Economic Growth Partnership (VEDP), including a $900,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund. Dover will also benefit from the Virginia Jobs Investment program, a VEDP initiative offering consulting and funding for companies creating new Virginia jobs.

Incentives and Tax Benefits Secure Investment

Chesterfield County supervisors approved a $599,000 performance grant to further incentivize Dover’s expansion. This grant will be structured as a reimbursement of real estate taxes paid on the new warehouse facility,which Dover leases. The county’s technology zone program, offering rebates on machinery and tools taxes, will provide additional local matching funds for the state grant.

Dover is required to invest at least $25.3 million at its Battery Brooke and Walthall Industrial sites within the next three years to qualify for the grant. The initial announcement of the expansion plans occurred in late September.

Strategic Rationale for Relocation

According to Sindoni, the decision to relocate operations from California was driven by several key factors, including the availability of a skilled workforce, the region’s advantageous logistical positioning for serving East Coast customers, and competitive cost structures. “It’s the availability of the workforce, the region is very good logistically for our customers across the East Coast. The cost was good too, it was very competitive,” Sindoni stated.

Dover opted to duplicate its equipment rather than relocate existing assets from California, ensuring a seamless transition and maintaining production redundancy. The company’s local footprint now spans three facilities: the new Walthall Industrial Parkway warehouse, the Battery Brooke manufacturing center (established around 2010), and a 600,000-square-foot plant on Ruffin Mill Road, operational as 1995.

About Dover Food Retail

Dover Food Retail, a subsidiary of dover Corporation, specializes in the manufacturing of commercial and industrial refrigeration systems, display cases, and related products.The company serves a diverse clientele including supermarkets, convenience stores, and food processing businesses, employing over 3,000 individuals across its operations.

Key Metric	Value
Total Investment	$25.3 Million
New Jobs Created	320+
Warehouse Size	500,000 sq ft
Manufacturing Facility Size	350,000 sq ft

Did You Know? Virginia has consistently ranked among the top states for business friendliness, attracting significant investment in recent years.

Pro Tip: Companies considering expansion should carefully evaluate state and local incentive programs to maximize their return on investment.

What impact will this expansion have on the Chesterfield County job market?

How will Dover’s shift away from California affect the state’s overall economic landscape?

The Trend of Reshoring and Regional investment

Dover Food Retail’s decision to invest in chesterfield County reflects a broader trend of ‘reshoring’ – bringing manufacturing back to the United States – and a focus on regional economic development. Supply chain disruptions experienced during the pandemic and rising transportation costs have prompted many companies to reassess their global footprints. The incentives offered by states and localities play a crucial role in attracting these investments. According to a report by The Reshoring Initiative, U.S. manufacturing jobs have been steadily increasing annually as 2010.

Frequently Asked questions About Dover’s Expansion

1. What is driving Dover Food retail’s expansion?

Dover is expanding due to a combination of factors including workforce availability, logistical advantages, and cost competitiveness in Chesterfield County, Virginia.

2. How many jobs will be created by this expansion?

The project is expected to add over 320 new jobs to the local economy.

3. What incentives are being offered to Dover Food Retail?

The company will receive a $900,000 state grant and a $599,000 county grant, along with benefits from the virginia Jobs Investment Program and the county’s technology zone program.

4. Where is Dover Food Retail relocating operations from?

Dover is relocating production from its facility in Sylmar, California.

5. What types of products does Dover Food retail manufacture?

Dover manufactures commercial and industrial refrigeration systems, display cases, and freezer doors.

6. How long has Dover Food Retail been operating in Chesterfield County?

Dover has maintained a presence in Chesterfield County since 1995.

7. What is the total investment amount for this expansion project?

The total investment for the project is $25.3 million.

Share your thoughts on this exciting development in the comments below!

How will ArcticTemp’s investment in advanced manufacturing technology impact production efficiency and product quality?

Expanding Operations: A Boost for Chesterfield’s Economy

A notable investment is underway in Chesterfield, Virginia, as leading commercial refrigeration manufacturer, arctictemp, officially launches its expanded manufacturing and warehouse operations. this expansion represents a significant commitment to the region, promising job creation and economic growth. The new facility, totaling 80,000 square feet, will consolidate ArcticTemp’s production and distribution, streamlining their supply chain and increasing capacity to meet growing demand for restaurant refrigeration, commercial freezers, and specialized cooling solutions.

Key Features of the New Facility

The state-of-the-art facility incorporates several key improvements designed for efficiency and scalability:

* Advanced Manufacturing Technology: ArcticTemp has invested in cutting-edge equipment for refrigeration unit assembly, including automated welding systems and precision sheet metal fabrication.

* Expanded Warehouse capacity: The larger warehouse space allows for increased inventory of commercial refrigerator parts and finished goods, reducing lead times for customers.

* Optimized Logistics: Strategically located with easy access to major transportation routes (I-95 and I-64), the facility facilitates faster and more cost-effective delivery of refrigeration equipment nationwide.

* Sustainability Initiatives: ArcticTemp is committed to environmentally responsible manufacturing. The new facility incorporates energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and waste reduction programs.

* Dedicated Service & Repair Center: A dedicated area within the facility will house a growing team of technicians focused on commercial fridge repair and preventative maintenance services.

Impact on the Local Job Market

The expansion is projected to create over 150 new jobs in Chesterfield over the next three years. These positions span a range of skill levels, including:

1. Manufacturing Technicians: Skilled workers responsible for assembling and testing commercial refrigeration systems.
2. Warehouse Personnel: Individuals needed for receiving, storing, and shipping refrigerator units and components.
3. Quality Control Inspectors: ensuring all products meet ArcticTemp’s rigorous quality standards.
4. Service Technicians: Providing on-site refrigerator maintenance and repair services to clients.
5. Administrative & Management Roles: Supporting the overall operation of the expanded facility.

Local workforce development programs are partnering with ArcticTemp to provide training and recruitment assistance, ensuring a qualified pipeline of candidates.

Meeting the Demand for Commercial Refrigeration

The demand for commercial refrigeration solutions is steadily increasing,driven by several factors:

* Growth in the Foodservice Industry: The restaurant and hospitality sectors are experiencing a rebound,leading to increased demand for reliable restaurant coolers and freezers.

* Expansion of grocery Stores & Supermarkets: New grocery store openings and expansions require significant investments in supermarket refrigeration equipment.

* Cold Chain Logistics: The growing need for temperature-controlled transportation and storage of perishable goods is driving demand for specialized cold storage solutions.

* Increased Focus on Food Safety: Stringent food safety regulations are prompting businesses to upgrade their refrigeration systems to ensure proper temperature control.

arctictemp’s expansion positions them to effectively address these growing needs, offering a comprehensive range of commercial refrigeration products and services.

ArcticTemp’s Product Portfolio: A Closer Look

ArcticTemp specializes in a diverse range of commercial refrigeration equipment,catering to various industries:

* Walk-in Coolers & Freezers: Customizable solutions for storing large quantities of perishable goods.

* reach-in Refrigerators & Freezers: Versatile units for restaurants, convenience stores, and other retail applications.

* Under-Counter Refrigeration: Space-saving options for kitchens and bars.

* Display Cases: Attractive and functional display refrigerators for showcasing products.

* Specialty Refrigeration: Custom-designed solutions for specific applications, such as pharmaceutical storage or floral preservation.

* Remote Refrigeration Systems: Energy-efficient systems that centralize cooling capacity.

Benefits of Choosing ArcticTemp

Businesses choosing ArcticTemp benefit from:

* High-Quality Products: Built to withstand the demands of commercial use.

* Energy Efficiency: Reducing operating costs and environmental impact.

* Customization Options: Tailoring solutions to meet specific needs.

* Reliable Service & Support: Ensuring minimal downtime and maximum productivity.

* Competitive Pricing: Offering value without compromising quality.

chesterfield’s Pro-Business Environment

Chesterfield county has actively cultivated a pro-business environment, attracting companies like ArcticTemp with its:

* Strategic location: Easy access to markets and transportation infrastructure.

* Skilled Workforce: A well-educated and trained labor pool.

* Competitive Incentives: Financial assistance and tax breaks for businesses.

* Supportive Local government: A commitment to fostering economic growth.

* High Quality of Life: Attracting and retaining talent.

This supportive ecosystem has played a crucial role in ArcticTemp’s