Representative of a $5.5 million investment, Italy-based Pietro Fiorentini’s first permanent manufacturing operation in Weirton, West Virginia is their first facility in the United States. It is expected to have up to 45 jobs upon the completion of its first phase, with up to 77 additional jobs in future phases. 

According to David Watkins, president of Pietro Fiorentini USA, it was a five-year process to bring the new factory to Weirton, with initial meetings taking place in 2012. He noted natural gas prices, along with the business environment, support from government officials and the location all played into the company’s decision to locate in Weirton. Another factor was the local labor force, with its industrial background. Pietro Fiorentini manufactures pressure regulators and valves, as well as pressure reducing and metering systems for the natural gas industry.