A major American manufacturer has elected to locate a new facility in Georgia, according to Gov. Brian Kemp’s Office.
Kemp announced last week that Duracell, one of the world’s leading battery manufacturers, will open its new Global Headquarters for Research and Development in Atlanta’s Science Square. The move will bring an investment of approximately $56 million and create 110 new jobs.
Duracell, an American manufacturer known for its alkaline, lithium coin, and hearing aid batteries, has a longstanding presence in Georgia. The company’s LaGrange manufacturing facility, which has operated since 1980, employs about 400 people, while its logistics and distribution plant in Fairburn, which opened in 2020, supports an additional 275 jobs.
“We’re excited about the opportunities the move to Atlanta will bring and we’re confident this new chapter will strengthen our position as a global leader in the industry,” Dr. Liben Hailu, chief technology officer at Duracell said. “This move is a significant milestone for Duracell as we continue to drive innovation in battery technology for many years to come.”
The new R&D headquarters will be located at 101 Nerem Street NW, adjacent to Georgia Tech’s Midtown campus. Science Square, an 18-acre innovation hub, offers more than 1.8 million square feet of lab and office space for companies engaged in cutting-edge research and development.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens highlighted Atlanta’s appeal for corporate growth, pointing to the city’s transportation infrastructure, diverse talent pool, and thriving tech ecosystem.
“Atlanta’s transportation infrastructure, diverse talent pool from top-tier universities and a thriving tech ecosystem make the city an ideal environment for corporate innovation and growth,” Dickens said. “We appreciate Duracell’s confidence in Atlanta, including the investment of more than 100 new jobs that will provide the opportunity for more Atlanta residents to build promising careers.”
Katie Kirkpatrick, President & CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber, underscored the significance of Duracell’s move, calling it a boost for the region’s reputation as a hub for innovation.
“The impact of Duracell’s decision to locate their R&D headquarters in Atlanta goes beyond the 110 new innovation jobs in the region: as they make Science Square their new home, Duracell strengthens our region’s powerful reputation as a hub for innovation and furthers Georgia’s growing battery ecosystem,” Kirkpatrick said. “Duracell is locating literally next door to the world-class talent at Georgia Tech and in close proximity to the other tens of thousands of new graduates in the region, setting them up for long-term success.”
The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), in partnership with Invest Atlanta, Select Fulton, the Metro Atlanta Chamber, Georgia Power and the University System of Georgia, played a pivotal role in securing the project.
“Georgia has set itself apart as a leader in attracting innovative companies with our research institutions, world-class logistics network, and pro-business environment,” Kemp said. “I want to thank our local and state partners who are leveraging those assets to their fullest to bring new opportunities across the state. We are excited to welcome Duracell’s R&D headquarters to Atlanta and continue building on this great relationship.”
