On June 27, Barracuda Networks, headquartered in Campbell, California, made two big announcements that will bring great benefit to Ann Arbor. The information security company unveiled a plan to expand its local workforce by about 184 new employees (adding to its current staff of 180), and Barracuda also said it will relocate from 201 Depot Street to the space formerly occupied by Borders bookstore.
Over three years, as it moves to 317 Maynard in downtown Ann Arbor, Barracuda anticipates adding 184 high-tech and engineering jobs and it plans to invest between $6 million and $7 million. This is one of the biggest commercial leases in recent Ann Arbor history. Barracuda will occupy the rear portion of the building that also previously housed Borders’ East Liberty Street store, which is owned by First Martin Corporation.
Barracuda looked at about 100 possible venues, but the downtown Ann Arbor building was the most appealing. Ann Arbor SPARK and the Ann Arbor office of Colliers International worked with Barracuda to find the right location.
John Teeter, property manager at First Martin, indicated that renovations would be underway in early July to transform the former Borders Books space into an appealing, high-tech office space. Plans call for Barracuda to move in this fall.
The project includes remodeling the façade, adding windows along the Maynard Street frontage, and constructing a small engineering data center along with a training center, exercise facilities, and break rooms with games.
A key for Barracuda was the City of Ann Arbor’s offer to provide a 5-year tax abatement estimated to be worth $85,150, while the Michigan Economic Development Corporation also offered up to $1.2 million.
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder said, "The expansion of Barracuda Networks demonstrates the importance of our strategy to help companies grow and flourish. This investment highlights the value of Michigan's highly competitive business climate and incredible workforce abilities for cutting-edge companies looking to expand."
According the company’s director of new product initiatives, Sean Heiney, Barracuda is now hiring about two employees per week. “Barracuda Networks continues to thrive, and Ann Arbor is critical to that success,” said Heiney. “We’re doubling down on our commitment to the region, bringing new and exciting jobs that are helping to shape our new economy. We’re extremely thrilled about our expansion and look forward to breathing new life into such an iconic space downtown.”
According to Barracuda, the company will be staffing positions including software engineers, systems administrators, user experience designers and quality assurance staff, among others. Heiney said Barracuda is hiring all types of different employees to work at the Ann Arbor office, including engineering, support, sales and customer service. Those interested in applying can visit http://www.barracudalabs.com/recruit/.
Barracuda’s move is obviously great news for the business community and Ann Arbor overall. When the community attracts well-paid, professional jobs it naturally carries over into other sectors, including restaurants, service businesses, real estate and many others.
