Baton Rouge Business Report

  When clients of Gulf Coast Office Products are in the market for a new copier or need an existing machine serviced, they don’t have to worry about a hassle. Instead, the process is more like catching up with an old friend. That’s because Gulf Coast Office Products prides itself on an experienced staff that has nurtured relationships with customers...

After running a loan and deposit production office in Baton Rouge since September 2022, JD Bank has opened its first full-service local branch. The new branch offers a variety of personal and commercial lending and deposit products through both physical and digital delivery channels as well as both trust and investment services.  Founded in Jennings nearly 80 years ago, JD...

Infrastructure improvements, a deepening river draft and inter-port collaborations are setting a new, and potentially transformational, course for the Port of Greater Baton Rouge.  The port has always been closely aligned with the U.S. agricultural market. Given its rail infrastructure and barge accessibility, it’s ideally suited as a destination for outbound shipments of grain, oil seeds, sugar, wood pellets and...

With over 50 years of experience supporting education, healthcare, economic development and job creation across Louisiana, the Louisiana Public Facilities Authority (LPFA) is using its legacy to support the future of Louisiana.  Established in 1974 as a nonprofit statewide public trust and a conduit issuer of tax-exempt and taxable bonds, the LPFA has financed over 850 Louisiana projects totaling $32.5...

  Delta Machine & Ironworks didn’t grow into a major industrial player by accident. It did it by designing its business around one promise: deliver exactly what customers need, exactly when they need it. In industrial construction, delays are often accepted as inevitable—and pipe supports are frequently a bottleneck. Delta builds on its success by rejecting that assumption and delivering...

  For 115 years, our ministry has served the Gulf South with faith, compassion and clinical excellence. In 2025, we made that strength unmistakable.  We aligned under one name: FMOL Health, the Gulf South’s leading Catholic healthcare system and a close to $5 billion nonprofit organization serving Louisiana and Mississippi with more than 20,000 team members.  This is not simply a rebrand....

LUBA’s journey has been a blessing to watch. We have grown dramatically but our employees still treat each other like family, and our clients and vendors feel it too. During the 1980s, due to a number of factors, the Louisiana’s Workers’ Compensation system declined and began to spiral downward to a point where most of the large national insurance companies...

  Several years ago, Ironman finishers and coaches Matt and Jesse Naquin found themselves in a unique situation. The certified nurse practitioner and certified registered nurse anesthetist worked out regularly and intentionally ate to fuel their activities, but were still putting on inexplicable weight. “I went to various doctors, but no one could pinpoint anything,” says Jesse. “No one could...

Thirty-six years ago, Jerry del Rio transitioned from nursing to real estate, trading her scrubs for a real estate license. In those early days before the Internet, locating homes involved driving around to spot “for sale” signs and compiling lists for clients, relying solely on printed materials that quickly became outdated.  This career shift was essential for del Rio, a...

For nearly five decades, Plant Machine Works, LLC has stood as a pillar of strength, service and innovation in Louisiana’s industrial landscape. What began as one man’s vision has evolved into a multi-generational story of resilience, craftsmanship and leadership that is still being written today.  When Claude Barber purchased PMW in 1977, his goal was to deliver exceptional workmanship with...

  The merger of LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors (LaPorte) and Mauldin & Jenkins (M&J) marks the beginning of a new chapter in client-focused excellence. By combining LaPorte’s deep regional roots with M&J’s century-long legacy and national reach, they have created an accounting powerhouse of over 800 professionals across 19 offices. This strategic alignment isn’t just about scale; it’s about...

  Baton Rouge’s past, present and future is deeply intertwined with water. Yet, as climate pressures intensify, population grows and development patterns evolve, the city’s relationship with water is changing.  Moffatt & Nichol, an infrastructure advisory and engineering firm that is marking the 20th anniversary of its office in Baton Rouge, works at the center of that challenge. It helps cities...

  Baton Rouge’s past, present and future is deeply intertwined with water. Yet, as climate pressures intensify, population grows and development patterns evolve, the city’s relationship with water is changing.  Moffatt & Nichol, an infrastructure advisory and engineering firm that is marking the 20th anniversary of its office in Baton Rouge, works at the center of that challenge. It helps cities...

“This is our 65th year in business, which is pretty remarkable when you look at the rate in which industry changes,” says Forte & Tablada President and CEO Joey Coco. “We’ve completed many thousands of projects through two generations of ownership before me. The age, the legacy of this firm, it’s something to respect and to be immensely proud...

Founded in 1927, Gallagher has grown into a global enterprise with nearly 71,000 employees, more than 1,300 offices and clients in over 130 countries. This sustained growth reflects the company’s expansive capabilities, consistent client focus and long-standing commitment to supporting organizations worldwide with responsive, insight‑driven solutions.  As one of the world’s largest insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting firms, Gallagher...

“This is our 65th year in business, which is pretty remarkable when you look at the rate in which industry changes,” says Forte & Tablada President and CEO Joey Coco. “We’ve completed many thousands of projects through two generations of ownership before me. The age, the legacy of this firm, it’s something to respect and to be immensely proud...

While the name is new, JRE is built on more than three decades of experience in commercial real estate. Today, the Baton Rouge–based firm has evolved into a full-service company offering brokerage, property management, development and capital investment services. The firm traces its roots to 1989, when Donnie Jarreau founded Donnie Jarreau Real Estate. Over the following decades, the company...

Embarking on 65 years of providing trusted communications systems, Executone of Louisiana embraces its past while looking forward to a promising future with new management at the helm. “As a locally owned and operated company in Baton Rouge, we’ve developed a reputation for reliable, innovative communication solutions backed by exceptional service,” says Chad Coppola, Executone’s new owner, president and...

At the end of every tax season, the CPAs and advisors at EisnerAmper take a break from crunching numbers to peel some crawfish. Hundreds of team members, some flying in from out of state to experience their first boil, gather to share over 1,000 pounds of mudbugs, corn and potatoes. The annual crawfish boil started over three decades ago, when...

There's a new bank in town, and it’s 102 years old. First National Bank of Louisiana, which opened in Crowley in 1924, has expanded into Baton Rouge as part of its long history of steady and consistent growth. “The Capital Region has so much to offer,” says Jordan Hultberg, Capital Market President. “With Louisiana State University, the seat of state government,...

  This year marks a milestone for Investar Bank, as the institution celebrates its 20th anniversary while also completing the largest acquisition in its history. The combination of growth, innovation and community commitment reflects the bank’s ongoing mission to deliver strong financial services while maintaining the personal relationships that have defined it since the beginning. One of the most significant developments...

It's easy to find Deep South Equipment’s Lafayette location; just look for the gorilla. The Louisiana-based equipment dealer and service provider opened at 122 Southpark Road in late 2024 and decided to keep the well-known gorilla statue from the previous owner, George’s Lift Trucks. CONNECT WITH US Top executives: John Parsons, Owner & President; Patrick Parsons, VP of Used Truck Sales...

At 19 years old, Floyd Degueyter became one of CLM Equipment’s first five employees, quickly moving up the ranks to parts manager. With a goal of moving into sales, Floyd got permission to take the company’s tractor-trailer after hours and on weekends to demonstrate how their tractor and bush hog could meet potential customers’ needs. “I saw some tall grass...

Celebrating 75 years in business is a reflection of the trust this community has placed in us for generations “I never wanted to be the biggest car wash, I wanted to be the best-run car wash,” reflected Benny’s co-owner, Benny Alford. “When my father started this business in Pensacola, Florida, we couldn’t imagine what it would one day become. After...

The West Baton Rouge Chamber of Commerce uses its strategic plan as a guide to create a robust business environment, promoting smart growth and development that attracts businesses and investors. “By narrowing our focus, reinforcing our position, and being more selective about the type of work we take on, we are able to work with more people,” says Executive Director...

John Parsons has a motto: “If you don’t take care of your customers, they won’t be your customers for long.” As the owner, president and CEO of Deep South Equipment, Parsons’ customer-first approach has paid off—taking the company from humble beginnings to a premier materials handling equipment dealer that has won national accolades and maintained a diverse portfolio of loyal...

With a longtime athletic background and coaching career, Jay Marks knows firsthand that teamwork is essential. In 2017, he and his wife Chabry invested in two properties and provided safe homes for others, as their interest in larger projects and establishing a business for their children grew. Hurricane Ida brought requests for roof replacements and renovations along with stories about...

For nearly 80 years, JD Bank has combined community-driven service with industry-leading banking solutions. Established in Jennings in 1947, the Louisiana-based bank has a strong presence along the I-10 corridor, from Lake Charles to Lafayette, with 22 full-service branches and two loan production offices, including one in Baton Rouge that opened in 2022. AT A GLANCE Top executives: Paul Brummett, CEO;...

The Louisiana Public Facilities Authority (LPFA) is celebrating its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of supporting economic development, healthcare and education in Louisiana through bond financing and job creation initiatives. AT A GLANCE Top executives: Tricia A. Dubroc, President & CEO; Martin Walke, CLEcD, Vice President; Joni M. Leggio, Vice President Phone: 225.923.0020 / 800.228.4755 Address: 2237 S. Acadian Thruway, Suite 650, Baton...

It would be a challenge to find another contractor with as much skill, knowledge and experience as Post Tension of Louisiana. The seasoned team has more than 100 years of combined experience and is already making waves in the post tension foundation market. AT A GLANCE Top executives: Jack Pou, Joseph Myhand, Alex Derouselle, Connor Clouatre Phone: 337.852.6313 Address: 9142 Castille Road, Baton...

As Werco Building Specialties Inc. celebrates its 50th anniversary, the company has solidified its position as a leading distributor in Division 10 Specialties. Supplying a wide range of construction items—including toilet partitions and accessories, fire extinguishers/cabinets, visual display boards, flagpoles and much more— Werco caters to a vast network of general contractors nationwide. AT A GLANCE Top executives: Eric Rowzee, Owner/President;...

After more than 140 years of growing and adapting to meet changing needs in Louisiana and beyond, Northwestern State University is continuing its tradition of academic excellence with innovative initiatives that educate and prepare students for success in life, in their careers and as citizens. AT A GLANCE Top executives: James T. Genovese, President Phone: 318.357.6011  Address: 175 Sam Sibley Dr. Natchitoches, Louisiana...

It’s simply ingrained in Campus Federal’s culture to be member focused. For the past 90 years, they’ve wanted nothing more than to be a trusted financial partner for every stage of life. AT A GLANCE Top executives: Jane Verret, President & CEO; Ryan Blauvelt, Chief Financial Officer; Jay Noel, Chief Lending Officer; Kristie Daspit, Chief Operating Officer; Ron Moreau, Chief Member...

Does your company struggle with a lack of team collaboration, or do you feel that your once-agile company has become mired with ineffective communication and inconsistent project implementation? AT A GLANCE Top executives: Maurice Velasquez, CEO and President Phone: 225.772.4674 (operations); 225.505.2823 (mobile Address: 17321 S. Harrell’s Ferry Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70816 Website: mauricetraining.com With his “Collaboration Accelerator” program, Maurice Velasquez, CEO and president...

Downtown Baton Rouge’s gaming, hotel and entertainment scene is getting a major boost! The area’s two casinos—the Belle of Baton Rouge and the Queen Baton Rouge have undergone extensive upgrades with more changes coming soon. Following the Queen’s debut as Baton Rouge’s first landside casino in 2023, the Belle of Baton Rouge moved into a temporary landside casino space in 2024...

If you’re searching for a place to call home, Lewis Companies is the answer. With an extensive portfolio and customer service that exceeds expectations, the licensed agents and brokers at Lewis Companies specialize in connecting tenants with the perfect living space and buyers with their dream home. AT A GLANCE Top executives: Valerie and Lanny Lewis, Owners; Luke Lewis, Broker Phone: 225.766.8802 Address: 9613...

When Barbara Auten moved to Baton Rouge from New Orleans and joined Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area (Alzheimer’s Services) part-time after Katrina, she had no idea that one day she would become the unique organization’s Executive Director. Although her grandmother passed away from Alzheimer’s when she was a teenager, she had no idea that during her now 19-year...

Since their founding in 2013 Next Level Solutions has spent years helping small to medium-sized businesses strengthen their business operations through finance, accounting, human resources and technology services with the goal of bridging the gap between small businesses and the resources they need to compete with larger companies. AT A GLANCE Top executives: Chris King, Managing Partner Phone:225.330.8347 Address: 7330 Highland Road, Suite...