The LEGO Group celebrated a major milestone in Chesterfield County, Virginia, this week as crews lifted the final steel beam into place at the company’s new U.S. factory. The “topping out” ceremony marks the completion of the building’s frame and signals the start of the next phase of construction.
“This steel topping out marks a significant moment in our journey to build and open our new U.S. factory, bringing creativity and LEGO play closer to fans across the region,” says Jesus Ibañez, General Manager of LEGO Manufacturing Virginia. “This achievement reflects the dedication of our team, partners, and local community, all working together to bring this vision to life.”
More than 1,300 attendees, including Virginia state officials, Chesterfield County leaders, LEGO employees, and construction partners, gathered to sign the beam before it was hoisted into place. In a playful twist on tradition, crews topped it with a 2.5-foot LEGO brick tree.
The new factory will span more than 1.7 million square feet across 13 buildings, including office space, molding and packing facilities, and a high-bay automated warehouse. LEGO has already begun operations at a temporary packing site in Virginia, employing more than 500 team members. The company expects to grow its workforce in the region to more than 1,700 over the next decade.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the site will minimize energy use and reduce emissions by tapping renewable power sources. LEGO is also supporting the community by planting native trees and partnering with local organizations to expand learning-through-play opportunities for kids in the Greater Richmond area.
Once complete, the Chesterfield County facility will become LEGO’s seventh factory worldwide and its second in the Americas.
