Hanover’s Perspective
Hanover County Celebrates Business Award Recipients
On June 11, 2025, Hanover County proudly honored its longstanding businesses and innovative leaders at The Heart of Hanover Business Awards, celebrating the recipients of the the esteemed Marc S. Weiss Award, the new Building Design and Improvement Award and the Legacy Business Awards.
Marc S. Weiss Award: Celebrating Innovation and Leadership
The Marc S. Weiss Award is presented to a Hanover-based business demonstrating a lasting commitment to innovation, meaningful growth, global involvement, and strong leadership within the local business community.
Porvair Filtration Group Inc.
Top: (L) Porvair Filtration Group; (R) The Landmark Company Inc. | Bottom: (L) Ashland Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; (R) Kings Dominion
Porvair Filtration Group, a British-based company with locations in the United Kingdom, United States, India and the Netherlands, manufactures a wide variety of filtration products and porous materials for various industries. The company’s offerings include filters, filter elements, and filtration systems for air, liquid, and gas applications. They also specialize in porous metal and polymeric materials, used in both OEM products and integrated into finished goods. Their products are used in various industries, including aerospace, food and beverage, microelectronics, nuclear, and more.
Porvair Filtration Group has operated in Hanover County for more than 25 years. After acquiring Omni Filters in 2007—its first U.S. investment—Porvair expanded its operations, moving from Maple Leaf Court to a larger facility on Business Lane in Ashland in 2016. This site now serves as the U.S. headquarters for Porvair’s filtration operations. Subsequent acquisitions, including companies in Pennsylvania, Maine, and Idaho, have further expanded its U.S. presence.
The company has fostered a strong, people-focused workplace culture emphasizing safety, transparency, employee well-being, and professional development. It has embraced innovation through workflow automation and investment in manufacturing technology to boost efficiency and product quality.
Community involvement includes partnerships with educational institutions like VCU, collaboration with GENEDGE, and charitable efforts supporting local youth and families. Internationally, Porvair engages in partnerships and trade missions to expand its market reach.
The company has seen substantial growth in revenue and workforce and is planning future expansions locally and internationally. Its retention and training programs are tailored to provide clear development paths and leadership training. Porvair has earned numerous industry recognitions, including safety milestones and awards from high-profile clients like Bechtel and SpaceX.
Building Design & Improvement Award
This award recognizes businesses and property owners who enhanced the aesthetic, functional, and sustainable aspects of their buildings, contributing to community development and economic growth within two years of the Award year.
The Landmark Company Inc. – The Shops at Rutland Grove
The Landmark Company Inc. is a family-owned commercial real estate development firm with more than 40 years of experience in the Richmond metro area. The company specializes in the development and management of high-quality office, flex, and retail properties. Known for its commitment to thoughtful design, functionality, and community impact, Landmark has built a strong reputation and long-term relationships with its tenants.
The company’s latest project, The Shops at Rutland Grove, is a newly constructed, 13,800-square-foot retail and office center located along Chamberlayne Road. Designed by 510 Architects and built by LF Jennings, the project was completed between 2024 and 2025. The center welcomed its first tenant, Hanover Mercantile, in May 2025. GameDay Grille is currently undergoing interior build-out and is expected to open in mid-July.
The Landmark Company is actively in discussions with additional prospective tenants and continues to attract strong interest from both local and regional businesses. Several spaces remain available and are ready for immediate occupancy. Visit thalhimer.com.
Legacy Awards: Honoring Enduring Excellence
The Legacy Awards recognize businesses that have operated continuously in Hanover County for 50 years or more, showcasing their sustained commitment to the community and economic resilience.
Ashland Nursing and Rehabilitation Center- VA East
Ashland Nursing and Rehabilitation Center has been a steadfast presence in Hanover County since 1975, providing skilled nursing and rehabilitation services to the community. Located at 906 Thompson Street in Ashland, the 190-bed facility offers 24-hour nursing care, comprehensive post-acute care, and specialized services such as physical, occupational, and speech therapies.
As part of the Consulate Health Care family, the facility continues to focus on delivering care with compassion and dedication, underscoring its role as a long-standing institution within the community.
Kings Dominion
Kings Dominion, a cherished landmark in Hanover County, Virginia, proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025. Since opening its gates on May 3, 1975, the park has delighted generations of families with its blend of thrilling rides, nostalgic charm, and community spirit. To commemorate this golden milestone, Kings Dominion has launched the “Golden Summerbration,” a season-long celebration featuring new attractions, entertainment, and limited-edition treats. As part of the celebration, the park debuted its newest coaster, Rapterra, a launched wing coaster which is the tallest and longest of its kind in the world. The coaster is designed to simulate the flight of the Jungle Hawk and features an initial launch, plunges, twists, and turns.
As Kings Dominion marks five decades of fun, it continues to be a cornerstone of Hanover County’s tourism and economic landscape. The county congratulates Kings Dominion on 50 years of unforgettable memories and looks forward to many more seasons of excitement ahead.
These awards highlight the exceptional contributions of Hanover’s business community, reflecting the county’s dedication to fostering a thriving economic environment.
For more information and to view photographs from the 2025 event, visit Hanover Business Recognition Programs.