Economic Impact – The fruits of our labor

The economic prosperity of a city, state or nation is largely dependent on the amount, and type, of business being conducted there. Payroll, taxes and corporate purchases all contribute significantly to economic health – and indirectly to infrastructure, civic institutions and culture. In this section, we have tried to share some key indicators of our impact on the Louisiana Operations community, as well as the economic performance of the site.

Here are some key indicators of our impact on the local community, based on 2005 data:

Capital Expenditures: $98.1 million. Like good care and safekeeping of your own personal property, Dow also invests in its assets to ensure long-term productivity with the best available technology.

Production: 14.46 billion pounds

Local Purchasing: Purchasing of equipment and supplies from Louisiana companies is a major investment by Dow. The dollars spent in the local communities include contract labor, equipment rental, materials & supplies and purchased services.

The West Bank Purchasing Policy, which was suggested by the Community Advisory Panel (CAP), gives preference to businesses in Iberville, West Baton Rouge and Assumption parishes that can meet Dow's quality requirements and safety standards. Goods and services purchased from local suppliers in 2005 totaled $63 million. In 2005, Louisiana Operations (LAO) purchased more than $400 million with suppliers throughout the state.

Payroll: LAO is a major employer in the area, with more than 1,600 employees. Employee payroll in 2005 was more than $117 million.

State & Local Taxes: In 2005 Dow, its subsidiaries, partnerships in Louisiana paid more than $72 million in state and local taxes.