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A manufacturer of engineered fabric shelter systems that recently moved its operations from Las Vegas to Rockbridge County is in the process of hiring approximately 60 workers.
XFS Global LLC has set up manufacturing operations in a 34,000-square-feet building that was formerly occupied by Heatex in the Natural Bridge Station industrial park. The property is being leased through Thalhimer.
“With the establishment of XFS Global in Natural Bridge, we celebrate not just the creation of new employment prospects but also the cultivation of varied economic terrain in the southern region of Rockbridge County,” said Brandy Flint, director of economic development for Rockbridge County. “We extend our gratitude to XFS Global for selecting Rockbridge as their home, and we look forward to working with them.” The company, according to a press release, recently acquired the assets of Creative Tent International and is using industrial space at 70 Douglas Way in Natural Bridge Station for light manufacturing and warehousing of large commercial-grade tents.
XFS Global is a “manufacturer of state-of-the-art fully integrated semi-permanent engineered fabric shelter systems,” according to the press release. The company “is a newly qualified servicedisabled veteran owned small business recently formed with the support of Lake Country Capital, an investment firm that provides transitional and growth capital to U.S.-based lower middle market companies. The Creative Tent International leadership team will assume leadership for XFS Global.”
The Natural Bridge Station facility “offers an expanded footprint and enhanced capabilities, including large format RF welding; fabric sewing and cutting; metal, weld and fabrication; and the ability to kit products for customer requirements,” states the press release. “Overhead cranes support the movement of containerized platforms around the facility. The new facility features a ‘battle lab’ and customer experience center.”
“Our new venture at XFS Global enables our organization to provide an expanded portfolio of products and services while also creating even more value for our customers,” said Jacob Furbee, president and CEO of XFS Global. “We are excited about this new chapter as we continue in our commitment to providing exceptional quality and unwavering dedication and service to our customers.”
XFS Global “is widely recognized,” according to the press release, “for its industry-leading production of state-of-the-art, fully integrated semi-permanent engineered fabric shelter systems for various applications such as aircraft storage, aircraft maintenance, warehouse space, temporary billeting, dining facilities, sports complexes and more.” The company provides products and services to the U.S. Department of Defense as well as to commercial, industrial and other federal customers.
“Our new Virginia headquarters brings us much closer to our customers, and our new facility will greatly enhance our manufacturing capabilities,” said Paul Wilcox, the company’s vice president for business development and market growth. “Being strategically located near our customers means reduced lead times, improved service team response times and further alignment with our strategic partners, ultimately leading to new product offerings, operational efficiencies, and increased value for our commercial customers and their businesses.”
Brian Dearing, a consultant for the company, said Tuesday that shipping and receiving managers are to be hired as well as hourly employees. He added that the initial target for the number of employees being hired is 60 but it is anticipated that the plant will eventually employ about 100 in the next several years.
