CHESTERFIELD, S.C. – July 6, 2009 – The Chesterfield County Economic Development Board today announced that Devon Office Furniture will relocate its operations to Chesterfield, South Carolina. The relocation is expected to generate up to 20 new jobs in the next five years. The company is a global office furniture manufacturer and distributor.

“We are pleased to relocate our operations to Chesterfield County, and specifically in the Town of Chesterfield. The area has an excellent workforce and positive business environment. Devon Office Furniture will soon have the majority of its assembly and domestic distribution under one roof. We appreciate all the support received from state and local officials,” said Terry Farish, Vice President of Operations for Devon Office Furniture.

Devon Office Furniture is subsidiary of the Devon International Group (DIG). DIG is a multinational group owned by John A. Bennett, M.D. that employs approximately 200 people worldwide.

DIG is made up of three sectors: healthcare, technology, and international business The healthcare sector comprises Devon Health Services, Devon Robotics, Devon Medical and SMI Health Media. Devon IT and CentriServ are the technology companies; and Devon International and Devon Office Furniture make up the international business sector. DIG's headquarters are in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and the Group has international offices in Ireland, United Kingdom, Lithuania, India and China.

Devon Office Furniture is relocating the bulk of its domestic operations from New York, Florida, Texas and Pennsylvania to Chesterfield, SC. The former Chesterfield Manufacturing Company Distribution Center building on Zoar Road will house the new operations. Minor assembly and much of domestic distribution will be processed through the 80,000 square foot Chesterfield facility. Logistics, including a great highway network and port access were essential for this project.

“Devon’s decision to expand operations in Chesterfield County is a positive indication that our business-friendly climate, skilled workforce and renewed focus on economic development are working to encourage growth, even in these challenging economic times. The County and Town will benefit from this investment now and in the future,” said Matt Rivers, Chairman, Chesterfield County Council.

“The Town of Chesterfield strives to ensure that our town will always be attractive to both industry and our citizens,” said Chesterfield Mayor John Douglas. “Obviously we’re pleased with the jobs and investment and feel extremely fortunate to welcome our new corporate neighbor with such strong international ties. Bringing new jobs to an empty industrial building is real progress towards a more revitalized Chesterfield,” added Douglas.

Devon Office Furniture will begin hiring for the positions right away. Anyone interested in applying or getting more information on the jobs available can contact the Terry Farish at tfarish@devonofficefurniture.com or fax (610) 650-9960.