Gov. Bobby Jindal and PreSonus CEO Jim Mack announced PreSonus Audio Electronics Inc. will build a new headquarters and research facility on Highland Road. The expansion will create 65 new direct jobs with an average salary of $80,000, plus benefits. The project, which will retain 80 existing jobs and result in another 79 indirect jobs in the region, represents a capital investment of $6.75 million.
PreSonus is a leading manufacturer of digital and analog hardware and integrated software systems for the professional audio market. The new 44,000-square-foot facility will replace the current PreSonus location in the Bon Carré Business Center on Florida Boulevard. Total development costs will exceed $8 million.
Gov. Jindal said, “PreSonus is a homegrown, ‘made-in-Louisiana’ story that makes us proud. Less than 20 years after being launched in a garage here in Baton Rouge, the company has grown to more than 130 employees worldwide. PreSonus’ decision to build its new headquarters right here in Baton Rouge is further proof that our state is becoming a beacon for the digital media and technology industries. PreSonus is just one of the many companies who choose to invest in Louisiana and create high-paying jobs for our people because they appreciate our strong business climate and highly skilled workforce.”
PreSonus will start construction at the Highland Road site this month, and the new headquarters and research facility will open in August 2013. The company has begun hiring and expects to fill the 65 new direct jobs within three years.
“PreSonus grew its revenue by more than 50 percent last year, and our new high-tech offices will enable us to continue this phenomenal growth,” said Mack, the PreSonus CEO. “We plan to further increase our engineering staff and R&D efforts and to enter new product categories, adding even more high-paying positions here in Baton Rouge.”
The State began working with PreSonus to facilitate the company’s expansion in early 2011. PreSonus is expected to utilize Louisiana’s Quality Jobs, Industrial Tax Exemption and Digital Interactive Media and Software Development incentives. The company also will receive assistance from LED FastStart™ – the No. 1 state-based workforce development program in the nation.
“Baton Rouge is fortunate that PreSonus, a well-known company with strong roots in the region, has decided to remain in the region and grow,” said Mayor-President Melvin “Kip” Holden. “We congratulate the company for their success over the years and know that remaining in Baton Rouge will allow for further growth and expansion.”
“When BRAC learned of PreSonus’ growing needs eighteen months ago, our team immediately began working with company officials to help them secure the resources and support that would allow them to stay in the Capital Region,” said BRAC President and CEO Adam Knapp. “BRAC is deeply committed to enhancing the region’s software development and IT industries. PreSonus was founded in Baton Rouge and has now become a world leader in digital audio electronics and soundboards. Their commitment to remain in Baton Rouge is a win for the entire region.”
About PreSonus
Founded in 1995, PreSonus Audio Electronics Inc. is a leading designer and manufacturer of audio-recording software, hardware and related accessories. PreSonus' software, microphone preamps, signal processors, digital audio interfaces, mixers, control surfaces and other products are used worldwide for recording, sound reinforcement, broadcast, sound design and Internet audio. For more information, visit www.presonus.com.