Specialty chemicals company to launch at Alexandria port Avant Organics LLC, a new specialty chemicals company, plans to manufacture innovative products at the Central Louisiana Regional Port, state officials said Friday. The project is subject to a final lease agreement, a news release from Louisiana Economic Development said. Parent company Crest Industries will make a $4 million capital investment and create 40 new direct jobs through the project, the release said. Avant Organics is a new business sector for the Pineville-based company, which employs more than 800 people serving customers in electrical infrastructure, distribution, industrial services and natural resources. Avant Organics will use advanced scientific research to enhance attributes, such as flavor and fragrance, for products in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical and other sectors, the release said. The company’s new direct jobs will feature an average annual salary of $75,000, plus benefits, and LED estimates another 215 new indirect jobs resulting from the project.