Governor Patrick Morrisey announced on March 26 that Alcon, a Switzerland-based global eye care company, will invest $81 million to expand its operations in Cabell County. The expansion is expected to create 75 new high-paying jobs, with the average salary projected at $80,000 per year.
The announcement highlights West Virginia’s growing role in advanced manufacturing and life sciences. Alcon currently employs about 620 people at its West Virginia facility, where it manufactures intraocular lenses and delivery systems used worldwide for cataract and vision correction procedures.
“For decades, Alcon has shown that a global leader can find great success right here in the Mountain State,” Governor Morrisey said. “This expansion demonstrates that West Virginia isn’t just a place to do business, but that it’s one of the best places in the world for a global leader to thrive.”
Morrisey also said, “These are careers that support families and strengthen communities. We are committed to creating an environment where companies can rely upon a skilled workforce, predictable policy, reliable infrastructure, and a pro-growth mindset. West Virginia is delivering on each of those fundamentals.”
Since October, more than $10.8 billion in private investment along with over 9,675 projected jobs have been announced statewide. With additional federal commitments included, total investment exceeds $12.3 billion supporting more than 10,675 projected jobs.
Alcon’s facility plays an important part in its global supply chain by producing precision-engineered ophthalmic products distributed internationally. The expansion aims to boost production capacity and further establish West Virginia as an important location for life sciences manufacturing.
