THREE MICHIGAN COMPANIES INVEST $39.3 MILLION TO EXPAND

LOWELL, KALAMAZOO AND ALLEGAN, MICH. — Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm has announced that three West Michigan companies will invest $39.3 million to expand their operations in the state as a result of the Michigan Economic Development Corp. Attwood Corp., a marine parts and accessories supplier, will consolidate its Lancaster, Texas, manufacturing operations into its existing facility located in Lowell. The $1.8 million project is expected to create 87 new jobs in the community. The company has received a $452,000 state tax credit over 7 years, and the city of Lowell has approved a 12-year property tax abatement worth more than $1 million to support the expansion. In Kalamazoo, Graphic Packaging International Inc. has announced plans to invest $27 million to expand its existing folding carton plant. The project, which is expected to create 377 new jobs, will receive a $2.96 million state tax credit over 12 years. To support the expansion, the city of Kalamazoo is also recommending 12-year real and personal property abatements worth approximately $1.5 million.
Additionally, Michigan-based Perrigo Co. has plans to invest $10.5 million in operating and training facilities at its global headquarters in Allegan. The project, which is expected to create 1,039 new jobs, has been approved for an $8.4 million state tax credit over 12 years. In order to support the project, the city of Allegan is awaiting approval of $1.4 million in real and personal tax abatements that would be incurred over a 12-year period.