After Colorado considered legislation early last year to restrict the capacity of magazines which could be sold in the state, Magpul, based near Boulder, pledged that they would leave the state if the legislation passed. When Governor Hickenlooper of Colorado signed the legislation, Magpul reiterated their intention to leave the state and also announced the Boulder Airlift, pumping a lot of 20 and 30 round magazines into the arms of Colorado gun owners anxious to receive them before any state-ordained deadlines.
Several months later, Coloradans recalled two legislators who were instrumental in the passing of the legislation, including the Colorado Senate president, John Morse. A third legislator resigned rather than face recall, which would have flipped control of that legislative body to Republicans.
It took longer than many expected, and some began to lose hope and vent their frustrations on Facebook, but today Magpul announced their move from Colorado to Texas and Wyoming:
MAGPUL INDUSTRIES ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR RELOCATION
Company Is Moving Operations to Wyoming and Texas
Magpul Industries announced today that it is relocating its operations to Wyoming and Texas.
The company is relocating manufacturing, distribution and shipping operations to Cheyenne, Wyoming. Magpul is leasing a 58,000 square foot manufacturing and distribution facility during the construction of a 100,000 square foot build-to-suit facility in the Cheyenne Business Parkway. The Wyoming relocation is being completed with support from Governor Matt Mead, the Wyoming Business Council and Cheyenne LEADS.
Magpul is moving its corporate headquarters to Texas. Three North Central Texas sites are under final consideration, and the transition to the Texas headquarters will begin as soon as the facility is selected. The Texas relocation is being accomplished with support from Governor Rick Perry and the Texas Economic Development Corporation.
"Magpul made the decision to relocate in March 2013 and has proceeded on an aggressive but deliberate path" says Doug Smith, Chief Operating Officer for Magpul Industries. "These dual moves will be carried out in a manner that ensures our operations and supply chain will not be interrupted and our loyal customers will not be affected."
The company began a nationwide search for a new base of operations after legislation was enacted in Colorado that dramatically limits the sale of firearms accessories – the core of Magpul's business. Magpul plans on initially transitioning 92% of its current workforce outside of Colorado within 12-16 months and will maintain only limited operations in Colorado.
"Moving operations to locations that support our culture of individual liberties and personal responsibility is important," says Richard Fitzpatrick, Chief Executive Officer for Magpul Industries. "Moving to a true multi state operation will also allow Magpul to utilize the strengths of both Texas and Wyoming as we continue to expand."
