Chinese furniture maker to come to Smyth County

RICHMOND — A Chinese furniture maker is establishing its first U.S. subsidiary in Smyth County.

Gov. Bob McDonnell announced the $2.1 million project Friday. He said the New Ridge subsidiary of Liaoyang Ningfeng Woodenware Co. is expected to create 125 jobs.

The plant will manufacture furniture components for the Chinese market, supply European customers with finished products from the U.S. and manufacture and sell products for the U.S. market.

McDonnell met with company officials about the project in Beijing during his Asia marketing mission last April. He says Virginia beat out three other states for the project.