LaCroix Precision Optics invests $13.8M to expand optics manufacturing facility in Arkansas 

LaCroix Precision Optics invests $13.8M to expand optics manufacturing facility in Arkansas 

July 4, 2025
The expansion will add 18,750 square feet of space and support a 10-year military contract while creating more than 100 new jobs. 

LaCroix Precision Optics has announced plans to expand its optics manufacturing facility in Batesville, Arkansas. The company, which produces high-precision optical components, is investing $13.8 million into the project and plans to create 107 new jobs over the next five years. 

The expansion will support increased customer demand and fulfill the requirements of a 10-year military contract. The project includes the addition of 18,750 square feet of new manufacturing space, along with advanced equipment to enhance the company’s production capabilities. Construction is already underway, with operations expected to begin in December 2025. 

What people are saying 

In a recent quote, Kirk Warden, President, LaCroix Precision Optics, said, “LaCroix Precision Optics is excited to expand our operations in Batesville, Arkansas to support a multi-year military contract that will help restore a critical supply chain to the United States. This expansion will allow us to enhance our capabilities with advanced equipment and additional manufacturing space. We are incredibly grateful for the hard work and dedication of our employees, whose efforts make this growth possible. We also want to thank our state and local officials for their unwavering support in making this expansion a reality. We’re proud to create over 100 new jobs for the Batesville community.” 

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, added, “Family-run companies like LaCroix Precision Optics are the backbone of our state’s economy, and we have been proud that they’ve called Arkansas home for almost sixty years. Their expansion further proves why cutting taxes, investing in our workforce, and reforming education helps drive economic growth, making Arkansas a great place to live and raise a family.” 

Manufacturers investing in Arkansas 

Elopak opens $100M carton manufacturing facility in Arkansas 
The plant will produce Pure-Pak cartons for liquid dairy products, juices, plant-based drinks, and liquid eggs. 

L3Harris and DoD invest $215.6M to expand solid rocket motor manufacturing site in Arkansas
L3Harris Technologies has broken ground on four new solid rocket motor production facilities at its Camden site.

RTX to build $33 million manufacturing facility in Arkansas
RXT will partner with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems to invest $33 million into the project and generate 30 new jobs for the surrounding area.

Investing in American manufacturing in 2025 

This map shows where manufacturers are choosing to invest their resources, whether they are building new production facilities or expanding existing plants. 

About the Author

Alexis Gajewski | Senior Content Strategist

Alexis Gajewski has over 15 years of experience in the maintenance, reliability, operations, and manufacturing space. She joined Plant Services in 2008 and works to bring readers the news, insight, and information they need to make the right decisions for their plants. Alexis also authors “The Lighter Side of Manufacturing,” a blog that highlights the fun and innovative advances in the industrial sector. 

Sponsored Recommendations

April 14, 2025
This paper addresses where leaks commonly occur, leak detection methods, and practical advice for an audit and repair plan. You'll learn why an ongoing leak detection and repair...
April 14, 2025
This special report explores the latest innovations in compressed air tech to help your facility reduce artificial demand and achieve greater system control. You'll also gain ...
April 14, 2025
Here are some things you can do in between formal preventive maintenance visits on your electric screw compressor to extend compressor life and prevent downtime.
April 14, 2025
They cost more than refrigerated dryers. They need more parts and service than refrigerated dryers. They increase demand for compressed air. So when should you use a desiccant...