Nathan Trotter, a supplier and recycler of tin and tin alloy products in North America, plans to invest about $65 million to build a new metal production and processing facility called Tin Ridge in Henry County, Virginia. The 115,000-square-foot plant will be located on a 44-acre site north of Martinsville. At full capacity, the facility is expected to create around 118 jobs.
Governor Glenn Youngkin commented on the project: “With today’s exciting announcement at Tin Ridge, Virginia continues to demonstrate that we are the best state in America if you’re looking to do business,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Nathan Trotter’s historic investment in Henry County only strengthens our national defense supply chain while also creating new, high-quality jobs and career opportunities in advanced manufacturing for the people of Southern Virginia. This project underscores our commitment to securing critical industries, powering our national defense, growing jobs, and building a stronger, more resilient future for the Commonwealth and for America.”
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura added: “Nathan Trotter’s investment in Henry County is a powerful example of how Virginia is leading the way in advanced manufacturing and supply chain infrastructure,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura. “By bringing the nation’s first large-scale tin processing facility to the Commonwealth, this project ensures the future of American manufacturing is powered by Virginia workers. We are proud to welcome such a historic and forward-looking company to the Commonwealth.”
Tin has been classified as a critical mineral by the U.S. government because it plays an essential role in solder used for circuit boards and electronic components found across commercial products as well as defense systems.
The planned facility will be the first plant in the United States able to refine significant amounts of both tin concentrate and scrap tin domestically. According to Nathan Trotter executives, it will feature modern technology aimed at environmentally responsible operations.
Tyler Morris, Vice President and Partner at Nathan Trotter stated: “Our new state-of-the-art tin processing facility will play an important and historic role in strengthening our nation’s fragile tin supply chain, as global competition and demand for critical minerals reaches extraordinary levels,” said Tyler Morris. “We selected Henry County and the state of Virginia for the talented workforce and proximity to key ports, customers, suppliers, and our network of tin production facilities throughout the region.”
Founded in 1789 in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, Nathan Trotter operates four refining plants across Pennsylvania. The company has adapted over more than two centuries as demand for tin evolved through different industrial periods.
Jim Adams, Chairman of the Henry County Board of Supervisors commented: “Nathan Trotter’s decision to locate at the Patriot Centre Industrial Park affirms our long-term strategy of preparing shovel-ready sites to attract world-class industry,” said Jim Adams. “With a 235-year legacy of metal manufacturing excellence and a strong commitment to sustainability and quality, Nathan Trotter is an ideal fit for a community like ours that values hard work and skilled craftsmanship. We are grateful to them for choosing Henry County.”
Senator Bill Stanley remarked: “Nathan Trotter was founded long ago on strong American values and a solid commitment to innovation. And today’s announcement clearly demonstrates that this great company also knows where to get things done right, which is right here in Henry County,” said Senator Bill Stanley. “Thank you to Governor Youngkin and our local economic development team for keeping their promise to restore Southside Virginia to its position as the leader in advanced manufacturing here in the Commonwealth.”
Delegate Eric Phillips added: “This project marks a major step forward in Virginia’s leadership on securing critical mineral supply chains that are vital to our national defense and modern economy,” said Delegate Eric Phillips. “Nathan Trotter’s investment not only strengthens national security by reshoring critical mineral production—it also creates good-paying jobs and new opportunities for our skilled workforce. This is a win for national security, advanced manufacturing, and most importantly, for the hardworking people of our region. I am proud to support this milestone and excited for what it means for Southern Virginia’s future in advanced manufacturing, our economy, and our families. Our economic development teams in the 48th District are among the best in Virginia, and together with our state partners and Governor Youngkin they continue deliver innovative companies new opportunities communities.”
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with county officials from Henry County along with local economic developers from Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation on this initiative.
To help secure this project Governor Youngkin approved $1.5 million from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund. VEDP will assist with job creation efforts through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program, which supports employee recruitment activities through consultative services or funding provided directly by state resources.
