Laborde Products Invests $5.85M to Expand Headquarters and Drive Innovation in St. Tammany Parish
Laborde Products, a Covington-based leader in marine engine and equipment services, has announced a $5.85 million investment to expand its headquarters in St. Tammany Parish. This ambitious project will feature a new operations center and warehouse, designed to enhance the company’s capabilities and support future growth. The expansion is expected to create five new permanent jobs with an average annual salary of $65,000, retain 40 existing positions, and generate eight additional indirect jobs. During construction, the project will also support 90 jobs, highlighting its economic significance, as noted by Louisiana Economic Development (LED).
The development will add 25,000 square feet to Laborde’s facilities on Louisiana Highway 25 in Covington, significantly increasing its operational capacity. The additional space will be dedicated to research and development, allowing the company to broaden its range of products and services. Laborde Products, which began in 1998 as a small-engine distributor, has grown into a vital supplier to maritime, energy, and defense industries across the Gulf Coast. The company’s leadership views this expansion as a vital step in strengthening its market position while creating valuable opportunities for its employees and community.
Construction is set to begin soon, with an anticipated completion date in late 2025 and full operations launching in early 2026. To support the project, the state has awarded Laborde Products a $200,000 reimbursable grant through LED’s economic development program to assist with infrastructure and equipment costs. Additionally, the company is expected to benefit from Louisiana’s Quality Jobs program, which provides incentives for businesses that create well-paying jobs.
Laborde Products’ CEO Brian Laborde emphasized that the expansion is not just about increasing physical space but about fostering innovation and community growth. The company’s commitment to research and development ensures it remains a key player in its industries, while the state’s support underscores the project’s broader importance to Louisiana’s economic landscape. As Laborde Products moves forward, its investment in this expansion reflects both confidence in its trajectory and a dedication to driving progress in its sector.
