Lifetouch to Expand, Create 200 New Jobs

MUNCIE, IN - Lifetouch, the world's largest employee-owned photography company, will be expanding its presence by adding 200 new jobs at its national customer contact center in Muncie, Indiana. About 7,700 feet will be added to its 12,700 square foot facility in the Morrison Mock  Professional Center on the city's west side. This expansion continues Lifetouch's commitment to Muncie and Delaware County including a world class production facility at Ontario Drive that has been a fixture in Muncie for nearly 30 years.

Based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, Lifetouch provides photography services for schools, athletic teams, houses of worship, families, and individuals through its own independent Flash! studios as well as nearly 800 photography studios in Target and J.C. Penney stores. In addition, Lifetouch creates visuals for corporate and industrial clients through its media subsidiary, Media Productions. Lifetouch, with a staff of 22,000, operates throughout the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

The expanded center will provide inbound telephone customer service as well as email and web chat support. The expansion will offer new employment opportunities in customer service, administrative/clerical, help desk/tech support, human resources, information systems, and management areas. The average wage at Lifetouch today is $23,940 annually plus benefits ($28,728 with benefits). Benefits include medical, dental and life insurance, short and long term disability coverage, discounted day care at select locations, and tuition reimbursement. The most significant benefit is the Lifetouch ESOP - or Employee Stock Ownership Plan. This is a 100% employer paid retirement program that has benefited thousands of Lifetouch retirees - including dozens in Muncie.

As another benefit to the community, Lifetouch has committed to using all local contractors to construct the expanded facility. Vision 2011 staff assisted Lifetouch with site location and training opportunities.

EXPANSION HIGHLIGHTS

• Job(s):                          200 jobs
• Annual Payroll:             > $5 million
• Capital Investment:       $750,000
• Where:                         Morrison Mock Professional Center  Muncie, Indiana

Source: Muncie-Delaware County Economic Development Alliance

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