The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

Money

October 21, 2008

Companies honored for shipping products across globe

Fred Pace

Gov. Joe Manchin joined the West Virginia Export Council and the U.S. Department of Commerce in commending 42 West Virginia companies that export their products to more than 50 countries across the globe.

“Our exporters are a source of pride for West Virginians,” Manchin said. “For the first half of 2008, West Virginia’s exports have grown 43 percent, outpacing the national rate of 18 percent. We are on track to surpass $5 billion in exports this year. I thank our exporting companies for their efforts and congratulate them on their success in proving West Virginia can compete in the global marketplace.”

One of the companies recognized was Engart Inc. of Beckley, which helps solve airborne dust-related problems. Engart has a fully stocked warehouse for 100 percent parts availability, and service 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“We were recognized for exporting to four countries, which were Australia, South Korea, Mexico, Colombia,” said Pam Parsons, Engart marketing director. “We received a plaque with a dollar bill from each of those countries.”

Parsons said it’s nice the state recognized the company’s contribution to the state.

“It’s nice to know that the governor sees the business and income we are bringing into West Virginia,” she said. “West Virginia is doing well and we are happy to be a part of its success.”

Another Raleigh County company recognized was Quality Environmental Containers of Beaver, which exports to Canada, Brazil, Australia, United Kingdom, Venezuela, Vietnam, South Korea, China, Jordan, Switzerland, Bermuda, India and Malaysia.

“Quality Environmental Containers does business in 14 countries and principalities on five continents, as well as in all 50 states and Puerto Rico,” said Michael McCune, vice president of sales and marketing.

“We are delighted to receive so many governor’s commendation plaques, and even more proud to be able to demonstrate emphatically that West Virginia companies and West Virginia workers can compete effectively on the international stage.”

Highland Machinery Corp. of Oak Hill was recognized for its exports to South Africa and Mexico. Telephone messages seeking comment from Highland officials were not immediately returned.

In 2007, West Virginia companies’ exports amounted to almost $4 billion in plastics, chemicals, coal, automotive components, machinery and other industrial consumer goods. That was an increase of nearly 23 percent over 2006. Exporting companies contribute about 12,000 jobs to the state’s economy, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

— E-mail:

fpace@register-herald.com

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