Today, Louisiana Association for the Blind (L.A.B.) announced that it has acquired Hilburn Printing. This acquisition is part of a multi-year strategy to improve employment opportunities within targeted industries for Louisianans with vision impairment. The nonprofit organization’s direct labor workforce is made up of 80 percent visually impaired employees who work in their print shop, manufacturing facilities and AbilityOne Base Supply Centers, located at Barksdale Air Force Base and Fort Polk.
“To create the jobs of the future for our clients, we must generate innovative opportunities within the Louisiana economy. Acquiring Hilburn Printing allows L.A.B. to continue the sterling service Sam Hilburn’s customers have experienced the past thirty-plus years, while gaining valuable knowledge to expand and grow our existing printing services,” said Libby Murphy, President and CEO of L.A.B.
The merger of the two printing facilities is the first of several initiatives set out in a 10-year strategic plan to expand L.A.B.’s $25 million operation. The 92-year-old organization not only creates employment for people with vision impairment. Revenue from L.A.B.’s print operations help support an extensive services division that provides vision rehabilitation, vocational training, and employment placement for people who are visually impaired. Clients include Louisianans of all ages, from infants to seniors.
Hilburn Printing’s location at 1325 Captain Shreve Drive in Shreveport will remain open for approximately three months to serve customers while employees and equipment are transitioned to L.A.B.’s printing facility at 1826 Claiborne Ave. Customers may place orders at either location.
“I can’t think of a better way to continue the legacy of our family-owned business than to become part of L.A.B. They operate a fantastic print shop that not only provides employment for people who are blind, but also offers a great complement to Hilburn’s services,” said Sam Hilburn, owner of Hilburn Printing.
