Int’l companies expand in GR, Port Huron

MSF approves grants to Italian, German firms as incentive for $32.5 million private investment, 150 jobs

Two grants to international companies will provide impetus for those firms to invest collectively up to $32.5 million and create 150 jobs in the state.

Siliconature Corp.

The Michigan Strategic Fund board approved on March 29 a $286,000 performance-based grant to Siliconature Corp., and a $496,000 performance-based grant to HP Pelzer Automotive Systems Inc. Funds are provided through the Michigan Business Development program.

“Selecting the West Michigan site is a strategic decision that puts Siliconature amid an efficient, cost-effective supply chain and proximity to the bulk of its Midwest market,” said Steve Arwood, CEO, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the state’s chief marketing and business attraction arm that administers programs and performs due diligence on behalf of the MSF.

In response to increasing sales in North America, Siliconature Corp. will open its first U.S. production facility in Gaines Charter Township located in metro Grand Rapids. The Italy-based manufacturer of silicone coated adhesive tapes and labels will invest $19 million and create 26 jobs.

“The Grand Rapids and West Michigan area offers a great base of talent for manufacturing and technical jobs that are critical to our success,” said Dave Arado, general manager, Siliconature USA. “The area presents the urban infrastructure of a larger city with natural and rural areas nearby – an ideal combination that is cost-effective for our business and an attractive feature for our employees.”

Siliconature considered competing sites in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin in deliberating where to locate its U.S. plant. In addition to the MSF performance-based grant, Gaines Township will support the project with a property tax abatement.

The company is headquartered in Godega di Sant’Urbano, 45 miles north of Venice. The company has offices and plants in Italy and Asia along with the U.S.

HP Pelzer Automotive Systems Inc.

A manufacturer of soft trim automotive parts with acoustic and heat-management properties for global automotive OEMs, HP Pelzer Automotive Systems Inc. will add a new production facility, including an investment of nearly $13.5 million and the creation of 124 jobs in the city of Port Huron. The state was selected over a competing site in Tennessee. 

“HP Pelzer’s expansion reflects the appeal and profitability of the thriving automotive industry business climate in Michigan,” said MEDC’s Arwood. “Their presence adds to the diversity of auto suppliers throughout the state.” 

HP Pelzer Automotive Systems Inc., is part of the Adler Pelzer Group, which employs more than 11,000 people worldwide. The company, which was founded in Witten, Germany, in 1969, has four facilities in Michigan, including its North American headquarters in Troy. 

The St. Clair County Economic Alliance plans to support the project with a job fair. 

For information on HP Pelzer careers, visit: http://www.adlerpelzer.com/careers/.

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