As 2020 gets off to a strong start, we’re looking back at the business development wins of 2019 and taking a moment to give thanks for what makes South Louisiana one of the most sought-after places for emerging business and talent.
2019 Business Development Totals
In 2019, we joined forces across the region to help secure $203.9 million in capital investments, resulting in 360 new direct jobs with an average salary of $64,000.
2019 Business Headlines
January — Bagwell Energy Services announced a $2.5 million expansion to its Port of Delcambre fabrication center in Iberia Parish. The company will retain 46 existing jobs and create 150 new jobs over the next five years with an average annual salary of $74,000, plus benefits.
February — Leonardo Helicopters celebrated the grand opening of its new $2 million, 21,000-square-foot Gulf of Mexico Support Center in Broussard. The Italian company, which specializes in military and commercial rotorcraft, will employ up to 30 people.
March — Switzerland-based helicopter maker Kopter announced that the company will lease an 84,700-square-foot facility from the Lafayette Regional Airport to assemble its new SH09 helicopter. The company plans to make a $4.2 million capital investment in new equipment and building additions, creating 120 new direct jobs with an average annual salary of $55,000, plus benefits. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in an additional 157 new indirect jobs in the Acadiana region.
May — Delek US Holdings announced a $150 million investment to enhance its refinery in Krotz Springs via a series of projects over the next five years. The energy company will retain 200 existing jobs and create 30 new direct jobs with an average annual salary of $90,000, plus benefits. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the investment will also result in 48 new indirect jobs for Acadiana.
June — Lacassine Operating Company announced a $12.5 million investment to construct a catalyst blending plant in Lacassine. In addition to creating 40 new direct jobs with an average salary of $45,760 plus benefits, Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will also result in an additional 123 new indirect jobs for Jeff Davis Parish and the South Louisiana Region.
December — Savoie’s Sausage and Food Products Inc. announced a $12.7 million expansion project which includes the construction of a 41,000-square-foot food production facility and installation of new production equipment in St. Landry Parish. The larger facility will not only enable the company to nearly double its production but will also broaden its distribution area, bringing Cajun-style sausage and other food products to a wider region.
December — Supreme Rice Mill announced a $20 million investment to expand its facilities in Crowley by adding 25,000 square feet of manufacturing space. Supreme Rice Mill is the largest rice-milling operation in Louisiana and this project will secure the company’s position as a leading rice producer. The company will retain 150 employees across Louisiana, as well as create an estimated 374 indirect jobs in Acadiana and surrounding areas.