Two Expansions in January

Two of our primary employers have announced expansions this month. Classic Transportation & Warehousing, an employee-owned customs bonded warehousing and transportation firm is investing $8,484,335 in expanding its operations in Leighton Township. Art Mulder and Sons Trucking, a transport solutions company, is investing $31,113,938 in expanding its operations in the City of Holland.
 “Our team and region have much to celebrate over the past challenging year. These successes would not be possible without the collaboration of our public, private, and education partners,” said Owens. “We will need that partnership even more in the new year as we set the course for what is sure to be a revolutionary year ahead.”  
Read the full article HERE.
To view our 2021 Successful Projects and Achievements Handout, click HERE
If you are a small to mid-sized manufacturer, please take this poll to help us better understand where you are on the path to Industry 4.0 implementation. The information collected is confidential and invaluable to ensure our resources go to the highest and best use to continue our region’s economic health.
Take the Assessment
Learn about Pure Michigan Business Connect and Pure Michigan Talent Connect with Angela Huesman, Lakeshore Advantage.
Watch this 2 minute video
This year join Jennifer Owens, Lakeshore Advantage President, and Amanda Murray, Vice President of Business Solutions, in a conversational webinar about our 2021 BIR data findings.  
Register for the Webinar Today
"We walk the talk here, and it has led to a culture of strong teamwork, collaboration, and trust. Culture is such an important element of recruiting and retention; a true differentiator when competing for talent. Our mission: To honor God in all we do, to help people develop, pursue excellence and grow profitably is our compass as we navigate through daily decisions and longer-term strategic initiatives." 
Read the Full Interview
The Talent Pathways Program is designed to help employers forge a path to success for current and future employees, leading to improved talent retention & recruitment. Participants in the program will receive grant funding to:
• Create career pathways in partnership with local training providers and community partners that result in sought-after industry credentials and certifications
• Access and develop a diverse talent pool
• Build a culture of success for low-income employees

This program will fund up to 20 companies who can receive up to $25,000 in reimbursed training expenses, including wages.
Attend an information ZOOM webinar
Learn More about this Program

Recent Bright Spots and News of Note

Celebrating what makes West Michigan a great place to live, work, learn, grow and start a business. 

  • Holland BPW has rolled out a hybridized utility truck powered by Volta
  • Haworth is acquiring Poland-based Mikomax, expanding their acoustic solutions. 
  • Gentex has partnered with eSight to develop mobile electronic eyewear
  • At the Ready for School Annual Meeting, they announced MI Tri-Share, which is a program that would assist with child care costs. Read this FAQ sheet on employer and employee eligibility and benefits for more information. 
  • Congratulations to Hudsonville Ice Cream for their partnership with Little Debbie on 7 new flavors of ice cream. 
  • The Going Pro Talent Fund Awards for 2022 have been announced. Congratulations to Perrigo, CSM Group, Owen-Ames-Kimball, Progressive AE, and Spectrum Health on your awards! 
  • The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has awarded more than $2 million in grants to nine programs to help employers fill their talent needs. These programs connect adult education participants in the state directly with employers by linking adult education, career, and technical skills, and workforce development. Congrats to ACATEC and the Careerline Tech Center who have programs that will be funded through this initiative
  • On December 7, Coastal Automotive CEO Paul Doyle spoke to the Senate Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports in Washington, D.C., about the impacts of shipping supply chains on businesses. Mr. Doyle testified as one of four guest witnesses at the invitation of Senator Gary Peters’ office. Read More
  • Every year, Ottawa County supports residents by providing resources for household necessities, including utility assistance.  Every year, they hold a fundraising event that supports our utility assistance program. The Walk for Warmth on February 7 is one way this is achieved. Learn More
  • Join Pure Michigan Business Connect (PMBC) and Consumers Energy for a supply chain matchmaking event on Wednesday, March 23, where Michigan businesses will learn how to be considered for opportunities with Consumers Energy. Complete the supplier application by February 18th. 
  • The Van Andel Global Trade Center is hosting a virtual training on the Basics of Importing on January 26 and 27 at 9:00 am
  • On March 17th, DTE and PMBC are hosting a Renewable Energy Matchmaking Event. To apply as a supplier, complete this form by February 11. 

Thank you, Macatawa Technologies, for your new investment in Lakeshore Advantage. 


Thank you, LG Energy Solution, for your increased investment in Lakeshore Advantage. 


Lakeshore Advantage investor support positively impacts the region's economic health.  Contact Beth Blanton at beth.blanton@lakeshoreadvantage.com to learn more. 
This news and events update was sent to you as a service of Lakeshore Advantage. We send communications on a regular basis to keep you up-to-date on information that may be helpful to you as a West Michigan primary employer. Please direct questions, comments and future submissions to Kelsey Sivertson at kelsey.sivertson@lakeshoreadvantage.com.
616.772.5226
www.lakeshoreadvantage.com

West Michigan's Business Advantage
Twitter LinkedIn YouTube
powered by emma
Subscribe to our email list.