Newport News, Virginia – Governor Glenn Youngkin announced earlier this week that Canon Virginia, Inc., a leading global manufacturer of consumer and office products, will expand its manufacturing facility in Newport News, Virginia. This expansion supports Canon’s new initiative to develop a unique method of isolating natural silk protein, which has applications across multiple industries. The company plans to retrain 30 employees to staff the new production line, marking one of Canon’s first ventures outside its traditional image-related product business.
Diversifying Product Lines in Virginia
Governor Youngkin expressed gratitude to Canon Virginia for its ongoing commitment to the state, noting that the company’s efforts to diversify its product line reflect the innovation ecosystem in Virginia. “We thank Canon Virginia, Inc. for its longstanding commitment to Virginia,” said Governor Youngkin. “The company’s efforts to diversify its product line are indicative of the Virginia innovation ecosystem. We are proud that the Commonwealth continues to attract companies like Canon with our strong business climate, elite infrastructure, and top-notch workforce.”
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick praised Canon’s expansion, highlighting the positive impact on Virginia’s manufacturing sector. “We are proud to see Canon Virginia, Inc. continue to reinvest in Virginia,” said Merrick. “We thank Canon for strengthening Virginia’s thriving manufacturing sector with this expansion.”
Innovative Ventures and Economic Growth
Canon Virginia’s President and CEO Shingo Shigeta emphasized the significance of the expansion for the company’s commitment to innovation and growth in the region. “This announcement brings great opportunity for Canon Virginia to continue our commitment to innovation, growth and development in Virginia,” said Shigeta. “With this expansion, we will make silk protein a viable commercially scaled technology with broad application use in various segments.”
Shigeta also expressed appreciation for the support from state and local partners. “Virginia’s conducive business environment and the healthy business ecosystem has helped us achieve this goal – this is only possible through unwavering support from the Commonwealth of Virginia, Governor Youngkin, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the City of Newport News, and the Hampton Roads Alliance.”
Local Leaders Applaud Canon’s Continued Commitment
Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones highlighted Canon’s longstanding presence in the city, recognizing its role as a leader in advanced manufacturing and corporate responsibility. “Canon Virginia’s success is built on a solid foundation of quality and sustainability,” said Jones. “Since its establishment in Newport News in 1985, CVI has been a leader in advanced manufacturing technology, environmental stewardship, and corporate social responsibility. We are excited about their expansion in our great city and look forward to their next innovative endeavors.”
Hampton Roads Alliance President and CEO Douglas L. Smith congratulated Newport News for supporting Canon’s growth and praised the company’s contributions to the local economy. “For over 40 years, CVI has been a cornerstone of the Hampton Roads manufacturing community,” said Smith. “This expansion not only reinforces CVI’s role as a leading corporate citizen, but also highlights our region’s global reputation as a hub for innovation and manufacturing excellence.”
Supporting Innovation Through Investment
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked closely with the City of Newport News to secure the project, supporting Canon Virginia’s retraining efforts through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program. Governor Youngkin also approved a $350,000 performance-based grant from the Virginia Investment Performance Grant, an incentive that encourages continued capital investment by existing Virginia companies.
