Murfreesboro, TN - Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, Inc. is expanding its operations with the construction of the Barrett Manufacturing & Technology Campus (BMTC) here in Murfreesboro. The $76.4 million campus-style industrial facility will serve as the company’s primary global firearms manufacturing hub and is expected to bring 183 new jobs to the region. The facility is scheduled to open in early 2027. The complex is located at 8808 Manchester Pike, about a mile north of the original site. It will be approximately 10 miles southeast of downtown Murfreesboro, integrating key operational functions. The facility will combine corporate headquarters, research & development, manufacturing, secure warehousing, and logistics, ensuring a seamless workflow from design to distribution.
Scope and Capabilities
The new 250,000-square-foot complex will encompass the entire product lifecycle—from concept and engineering to production, testing, sustainment, and delivery. As Barrett continues to expand its product range, the new complex will accommodate cutting-edge manufacturing technologies designed to enhance efficiency and innovation.
Economic and Workforce Impact
Barrett’s expansion doubles its workforce over the next five years, reinforcing Tennessee’s leadership in firearms manufacturing. The state has been a longstanding partner to Barrett, supporting economic growth in Rutherford County. Since 2020, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development has backed 16 projects in the region, securing 2,600 jobs and $323 million in capital investments.
Corporate Ownership and Future Vision
Founded in Murfreesboro in 1982, Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, Inc. was acquired by NIOA Group—an Australian-based global firearms and munitions company—in 2023. Upon completion of the Barrett Manufacturing & Technology Campus, NIOA Group will establish its U.S. headquarters at the new facility, further strengthening its presence in the American defense and commercial firearms industries.
Statements from Key Leaders
- Gov. Bill Lee emphasized Barrett’s investment in Tennessee’s skilled workforce, calling the expansion “a major step forward for the state’s economy.”
- Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter pointed to Barrett’s longstanding economic contributions, highlighting Tennessee’s growing role in global firearms production.
- Bryan James, CEO of Barrett, described the Barrett Manufacturing & Technology Campus as “a bold investment in innovation and capability expansion,” reaffirming Barrett’s commitment to Murfreesboro.
- Robert Nioa, CEO of NIOA Group, expressed enthusiasm about the strategic importance of the new campus, positioning Barrett as a leading American firearms manufacturer.
- Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland said, "We are thrilled about Barrett’s expansion in Rutherford County. For over 40 years, this company has made a significant economic impact on our community, and we look forward to the future growth of Barrett and NIOA.”
- Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr commented, "We are thrilled about Barrett’s expansion in Rutherford County. For over 40 years, this company has made a significant economic impact on our community, and we look forward to the future growth of Barrett and NIOA.”
- State Sen. Shane Reeves (R-Murfreesboro) noted, “I am excited to announce the expansion of Barrett into the Murfreesboro region. The right to bear arms is key to American democracy, and Barrett provides quality products to ensure this right to Tennesseans. Investing $76.4 million and creating 183 new jobs in and around Rutherford County truly shows their dedication to Tennessee and the country.”
- The area's State Representative Bryan Terry, MD (R-Rutherford County) said, “Barrett has been an excellent business partner in Rutherford County for decades, producing state-of-the-art products for our military and law enforcement. I’m thrilled to see they are further investing in our community and creating 183 jobs for local families, and I look forward to seeing their continued success for many years to come.”
Future
Barrett’s major investment in Murfreesboro showcases its commitment to technological advancement and long-term economic development in Tennessee. With a state-of-the-art facility on the horizon, the company continues to solidify its legacy as a key player in the global firearms industry.