n March 29, Virginia's Secretary of Commerce & Trade, Caren Merrick, visited local cabinet and millwork company, Sarandi Manufacturing. Secretary Merrick was interested in the skill and craftsmanship that goes into the work produced at Sarandi Manufacturing’s 24,000 square foot facility in Broadway, VA.
Accompanying Secretary Merrick on her trip were Director of Partner Relations VEDP, Abigail Wescott and Nicole Riley, Senior Vice President of Policy and Strategic Partnerships for the VEDP. The women were greeted by Stan Sarandi, President of Sarandi Manufacturing, who offered background information on the company’s history. Stan detailed his family’s legacy of artisanship and the beginnings of the company upon immigrating from Russia.
Sarandi Manufacturing started its operation in an abandoned 1200 square foot gas station in 2006. Inspired by their father's passion for quality and craftsmanship, brothers Stan, Paul, and David Sarandi, created Sarandi Manufacturing – which is now an industry leader in custom cabinets and furnishings, serving hotels, resorts, and commercial construction projects throughout the United States.
Secretary Merrick was interested in Sarandi Manufacturing’s recent work for assisted living and senior care facilities located throughout Virginia.
During her tour of Sarandi Manufacturing, Merrick was able see examples of several handcrafted products that were in various stages of completion.
“Sarandi Manufacturing is a prime example of what’s possible when innovation, ingenuity, and courage merge”, said Merrick. “The imagination of our small businesses and entrepreneurs is critical to the success of the Commonwealth today and in the future. Our administration is committed to doing our part to foster entrepreneurial ecosystems to help small business owners like Stan succeed and grow”, she added.
Secretary Merrick also took time to compliment the Sarandi team on their beautiful work and held conversations with individual team members, getting to know the faces behind Sarandi.
“It was awesome having Secretary Merrick, Abigail and Nicole visit”, stated Stan Sarandi. “I really enjoyed hosting a tour of our facility and being able to share information about what we create. I appreciate the time that they took to visit us and learn about the contribution that we are making to our community and to Virginia’s economy”, Sarandi added.
“More so, they are just great people, which is most important. I could feel that Secretary Merrick really cares about what she is doing, and that is a wonderful way to approach her job”, Sarandi concluded.
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