BASF announced plans to build a Polyurethane Systems House in Geismar, Louisiana, in which polyurethane raw materials will be blended to deliver customized products to customers in the transportation, furniture, and construction industries. The $42 million facility will create 22 new jobs and more than 160 construction jobs.
"Today's announcement is great news for Ascension Parish and our entire state. BASF continues to be one of the largest economic drivers in Louisiana, investing more than $350 million in projects since 2009," said LouisianaGovernor Bobby Jindal."The continued success of BASF led to today's latest expansion, which will allow polyurethane blending to take place right here in Louisiana rather than being shipped out-of-state. Once again, our strong business climate, world-class infrastructure and incomparable workforce are bringing new business investment to Louisiana."
BASF will begin construction on the Polyurethane Systems House in the second quarter of 2014 at Geismar. With 40 system houses in its global network, BASF is the leading provider of polyurethane solutions to the industry. The new facilitywill develop, serve and manufacture innovative polyurethane systems for a wide range of applications, while also improving reaction speed and service to customer and market needs in North America.
"This Polyurethane Systems House project demonstrates our commitment to the future growth in this region and market," said Tom Yura, Senior Vice President and General Manager of BASF's Geismar site. "The project also further strengthens our position as a leading supplier of chemistry for sustainable solutionsby creating efficiency and shortening the supply chain to our customers."
BASF's manufacturing presence in Louisiana includes operations in Geismar, Zachary and Vidalia, employing nearly 2,000 people in Louisiana.