Spectrum Industries
Nestled in the heart of Grand Rapids, Spectrum Industries has expanded internationally with help from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
Founded in Grand Rapids in 1979, Spectrum Industries is a privately-held company that provides Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) with hydrographics using their proprietary RAYN Technology. RAYN Technology is a three-dimensional laser graphic system that applies complex designs, such as imitation wood grain, onto metal and plastic components for automotive and airplane interiors. The Lincoln Aviator and Cadillac CT6 are two luxury vehicles currently on the market that were built using RAYN Technology.
After experiencing tremendous growth in the United States, Spectrum Industries turned to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s International Trade team for support in taking its RAYN Technology global. The MEDC’s team of international business experts worked alongside Spectrum Industries as the company expanded into China, vetting companies and arranging pre-screened business-to-business matchmaking meetings. Today, Spectrum Industries reports more than $1 million in exports in China, due in part to the partnerships they established with support from the MEDC’s International Trade team.
“We always have questions when expanding into a new area we’ve never been before, and the MEDC has been extremely helpful in getting us to understand new markets better,” said Rob Wilder, vice president of engineering for Spectrum Industries and vice president of global business development for RAYN Technology. “Their guidance allows us to expand into these markets faster by introducing us to customers and potential business partners and taking us to trade shows. It saves us so much work and time.”
The company has also received $25,772.91 in Michigan State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grant funds from the International Trade team, which has allowed them to display their RAYN Technology at international trade shows and to conduct sales trips to promising export markets. When visiting China, the MEDC’s China Trade Center provided logistics information, prepared translated marketing materials, and provided key insights into the country’s culture, laws and export requirements as Spectrum utilized the MEDC’s MI-STEP grant to meet potential partners in the country.
Spectrum Industries is a private, second-generation, family-owned company dedicated to supporting the residents and economy of West Michigan. They currently employ nearly 400 people and hope to one day celebrate 100 years of business in downtown Grand Rapids.
“Being a family-owned business, we’re committed to staying in West Michigan and helping the community,” said Wilder. “People in West Michigan are fantastic to work with—they have a great work ethic, show up on time and have great values.”
Every day, the MEDC is helping companies like Spectrum Industries expand their businesses to new heights. To learn more about the support and resources available, please visit https://www.michiganbusiness.org/pure-partnership/.