‘Shark Tank’ contestant investing $35M into West Virginia manufacturing facility

BUCKHANNON, W.Va. (WBOY) — A sustainable wood products company that appeared on “Shark Tank” is establishing a new manufacturing facility in Upshur County.

Gov. Jim Justice (R) announced Wednesday that Prime 6 is investing $35 million into the project in Buckhannon, which is expected to create 75 jobs. The release said the facility will begin announcing job openings soon and begin operations “in the coming months.”

According to the City of Buckhannon , the facility will be located in the former Novelis property on Moore Avenue which closed earlier this year .

Prime 6 is known for upcycling wood waste into USDA-certified products for the hospitality industry such as cooking charcoal, according to Justice.

“Shark Tank” fans might recognize the company from season 12 of the show. Kevin O’Leary, the shark that Prime 6 CEO Riki Franco struck a deal with on the show, is expected to attend the grand opening in Buckhannon, although no date has been set.

“I am extremely proud to welcome Prime 6 to Upshur County and West Virginia,” Gov. Justice said in the release. “Wood has always been a part of our rich history, shaping our economy and way of life for generations. Prime 6’s decision to put down roots with their new facility not only carries on that rich tradition but proves we are the best place to be for growing forward-thinking, sustainable businesses. This facility will bring incredible good-paying jobs to the hardest working group of people Prime 6 could invest in. I thank them for believing in West Virginia as much as I do.”

The release said the company is expected to have a “ripple effect throughout the local economy.”

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