Duracell to Spark Innovation with New Global R&D Headquarters in Atlanta, Creating 110 Jobs

Duracell has announced its decision to establish a new Global Headquarters for Research and Development in the city, a move highly praised by local and state officials. The renowned battery manufacturer intends to create 110 jobs and invest around $56 million in Science Square, the chosen site of its new R&D hub. With a history dating back to 1980 in Georgia through its manufacturing facility in LaGrange, and a further expansion in 2020 with a logistics and distribution plant in Fairburn, Duracell's latest commitment reaffirms its longstanding relationship with the state, according to the Office of the Governor.

In a statement obtained by the Office of the Governor, Gov. Brian P. Kemp expressed his enthusiasm over the decision, attributing Georgia's success in drawing innovative corporations to its combination of top-tier research institutions, an exemplary logistics network, and a business-friendly climate. Gov. Kemp emphasized the crucial role local and state partners play in maximally leveraging these assets to spawn new opportunities across Georgia.

The move is not just an expansion but is also expected to significantly reinforce Duracell's strides in the battery technology sector. "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, told gov.georgia.gov. 

The announcement has also been met with praise from Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, who was quick to nod at the city's infrastructure and the diversity of its talent, brought up by top universities, as prime reasons for Atlanta being an ideal location for corporate growth. Duracell's decision to set up its R&D headquarters at 101 Nerem Street NW, adjacent to Georgia Tech’s Midtown Atlanta campus, was described by Mayor Dickens as proof of the company's faith in Atlanta's capacity to support innovation, along with the promise of more than 100 new jobs that can help local residents build fruitful careers.

Rounding off the chorus of approval was Metro Atlanta Chamber President & CEO Katie Kirkpatrick, who underscored Duracell's influence on reinforcing the area's reputation as an innovation hotbed and its contribution to Georgia's burgeoning battery ecosystem. Meanwhile, Fulton County Board of Commissioners Chairman Robb Pitts hailed the decision as a victory for local innovation and job creation. The collaborative efforts of state agencies, including the Georgia Department of Economic Development and partners like Invest Atlanta and Select Fulton, were instrumental in attracting Duracell's new R&D operations to the region.