University City Report (PDF) - Charlotte Chamber of Commerce

John Marchionda, Husqvara’s
Vice President of Marketing
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Company Profile: The Husqvarna Group
The Husqvarna Group has an interesting history as it was initially founded,
in 1689, with a focus on making muskets. While the company also has a long
history in the Charlotte market, 2009 marked a new era as University City
became home to Husqvarna’s “Headquarters for the Americas.” The company
also has another local historical connection: Husqvarna was spun off from
University City neighbor Electrolux in 2006.
The company has come a long way since its musket-making days.
Husqvarna is now the world’s largest producer of outdoor power products.
Many Americans are familiar with their offerings, which range from chainsaws
to lawn mowers to garden tractors. Poulan and Weed Eater are just two of the
brands that fall under the Husqvarna name.
Before the 2009 headquarters relocation announcement, the company
already employed roughly 160 people at its Professional Products
headquarters stationed at 7349 Statesville Road. But when the time came to
move from their main location in Augusta, Ga., other suitors came calling —
some at the eleventh hour. But the N.C. Economic Investment Committee
bestowed the company the state’s Job Development Investment Grant right
before the headquarters announcement. Since the grant money is tied to
performance targets, Husqvarna has to deliver on its promise of creating new
jobs over the next nine years, which is a boon for employment in the area.
In 2010 the company announced its plans to relocate its American
headquarters to Harris Corners Corporate Park, which is located right off
I-77’s Exit 18. According to a company spokesperson, University City — and
Charlotte in general — provides the perfect setting for many companies who
are based overseas.
“Charlotte is comfortable with its role as a major hub for multinational
firms,” said John Marchionda, the vice president of marketing at Husqvarna.
Marchionda noted University City’s central location as a huge selling
point for businesses relocating or expanding to the region. Infrastructure is
also a crucial determining factor. The area has a competitive edge due to site
availability and operating resources that don’t exist elsewhere. Marchionda
also pointed to University City’s cultural and social strengths, which benefit
the company’s employees.
“The area provides great amenities and services that increase one’s quality
of life,” he said.
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