As T. Parker Host celebrates 100 years of providing service and solutions to the maritime and commercial shipping industries, the shipping titan announced its plans to relocate its headquarters to Jefferson Parish. The company is currently headquartered in Norfolk, Va.
“It is wonderful news that T. Parker Host is relocating its headquarters from Virginia to Jefferson Parish in Greater New Orleans,” said Michael Hecht, GNO, Inc. President & CEO. “HOST has already made an immense impact on the region, by revitalizing Avondale Shipyards, employing hundreds, and investing hundreds of thousands in local efforts like The NOLA Coalition. I am sure, now that the HOST headquarters is here, that their impact will only grow.”
Since its founding, HOST has become known for its integrity and quality service. By continuously earning the confidence and trust of hundreds of customers, partners and consumers, HOST has grown its operations to cover the American coast from Philadelphia to Brownsville, Texas, and processed billions of tons of cargo.
"In 1923, T. Parker Host began as a family business focused on shipping along the Eastern Seaboard," stated HOST Chief Executive Officer and Chairman Adam Anderson. "Today, 100 years later, we have built a legacy of service to the global maritime industry and the communities in which we operate. We will always remember our roots in Virginia and are excited for what the next century holds, as we chart a new course on the Mississippi River in Jefferson Parish. Since we began operations in Louisiana in 1989, our business has steadily refocused to be centered on the Mississippi River and the significant opportunities for growth in the region. The past 100 years of success, development and innovation would not have been possible without the support and trust of our customers, partners and employees – we sincerely thank you for your loyalty and remain committed to serving you for the next 100 years.”
In Louisiana alone, Host employs more than 300 Louisianians and supports more than $22 million in direct employee payroll. In 2022, Host contributed $156,500 to local organizations and charities including the Bridge City Gumbo Festival, the NOLA Coalition, United Way and more. Now, under the leadership of CEO and Chairman Adam Anderson, HOST is forging a new path by positioning its headquarters in Jefferson Parish.
“With its proximity to the Panama Canal, ever-expanding energy industry, and location on the Mississippi River, the Greater New Orleans region holds significant opportunity for HOST to reach new heights of success in our next 100 years. As evidenced by our investments in Avondale and Davant, La., we believe the future for HOST is on the Mississippi River,” said Anderson.
In 2018, HOST acquired and invested in transforming Avondale Global Gateway, which rapidly solidified HOST’s place along the Mississippi River and in South Louisiana. The upcoming sale of Avondale Global Gateway to the Port of South Louisiana, with HOST retaining operational responsibility, will establish Avondale as apremier gateway for U.S. import and export traffic and aligns with HOST’s goals of supporting economic development in the River Parishes and Southeast Louisiana through waterborne commerce.