AP News, December 17th, 2007
Research in Motion Ltd., maker of the BlackBerry smart phone, will put its U.S. headquarters in a Texas suburb where it plans to employ more than 1,000 people within next several years.
Company executives and local business and political leaders announced the choice of Irving on Monday at a press conference at its new offices there.
Jim Balsillie, co-chief executive, said Research in Motion is expanding operations to pursue sales and service opportunities around the world. He said Irving offered a talented work force and strong infrastructure.
The company's world headquarters are in Waterloo, Ontario. It makes wireless devices with phone, texting, e-mail and Internet capability for customers around the world. BlackBerry service is available on phone-service providers including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless.
Ron Gafford, chairman of the Greater Dallas Chamber, called Research in Motion "a world-class organization" noted for innovation and said he was thrilled at the U.S. headquarters decision.
"This is a great day for North Texas as we welcome this wonderful company and the jobs it will create," said state Sen. Florence Shapiro, R-Plano.
Irving is home to the nation's largest company, Exxon Mobil Corp., and to Kimberly-Clark Corp. and jewelry company Zale Corp. It also houses large offices for several telecommunications and public relations companies.
Research in Motion will occupy more than 100,000 square feet in Riverside Commons, a recently renovated six-building office complex on 13 acres along State Highway 114.
This month, Research in Motion struck a deal with JetBlue Airways Corp. to test letting passengers check their e-mail in flight.
