Albemarle Corporation, a leader in the global specialty chemicals industry, plans to expand and modernize two bromine facilities in Magnolia, Arkansas. The $540 million project is expected to increase the workforce at the two facilities by 15 percent.

The upgrade will be designed to meet growing demand for fire safety and specialty products in several industries, including technology, safety, transportation, and green energy, according to state officials. The investments have begun and will continue through 2027.

“We have a long, rich history of operations in Columbia County with a strong commitment to both the community and the economy in the region,” said Netha Johnson, Albemarle’s president of Bromine. “The facility investments, along with the jobs and the economic stability they bring, reaffirm our dedication to the area and to meeting our customers’ needs as we work together to build the technologies of the future for a safer, greener world.”

Albemarle is investing in leadership and technical training at its Magnolia locations with the support of the Arkansas Office of Skills Development.

“Albemarle is known throughout the world as an industry leader and innovator,” noted Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston. “Their commitment to sustainability pairs perfectly with our goals of improving economic conditions in the state while maintaining an exemplary quality of life. Their decision to expand in Magnolia is a reflection on our dedicated workforce and our business climate that allows companies that call Arkansas home to reach their full potential, both on the factory floor and out in the community.”

Albemarle produces several high-demand bromine and derivative products at the site used in fire safety, chemical synthesis, oil and gas well drilling and completion fluids, mercury control, paper manufacturing, water purification, beef and poultry processing, and various other industrial applications.

“It has been a pleasure working with the Albemarle team and seeing this project come to fruition,” added Ellie Baker, director of Magnolia Economic Development. “Albemarle has been a household name in south Arkansas for over 50 years. Its presence is felt throughout the county as a multi-generational employer and partner in community projects, schools, and events.”

The Magnolia Economic Development, Columbia County; the Arkansas Economic Development Corporation (AEDC); and Entergy, the plant’s electrical power supplier, all support the project development.