Automation Alley, Michigan’s largest technology business association, recently welcomed four new companies to its International Business Center. The companies – from Germany, France and Canada – are expected to create about 80 new jobs for the region.
Tenants of Automation Alley’s International Business Center can use the Troy facility as a home base for up to 90 days while exploring opportunities to do business in Southeast Michigan. Since 2011, Automation Alley has assisted 11 foreign companies in establishing their operations in Southeast Michigan, creating 433 jobs for the region.
Peter-Lacke USA, a Germany-based company specializing in the development and manufacture of coatings for plastic, glass and wood, is one of the four new tenant companies. Joe Sanchez, accounting manager at Peter-Lacke USA, said the purchase of a building in the Detroit area will provide the infrastructure to support paint customers both locally and throughout the U.S.
“Additionally, this will provide excellent proximity to North American OEMs (original equipment manufacturers),” Sanchez said. “The staff at Automation Alley has provided fantastic service and support.”
Paul Lester, president of North American operations for new tenant company Bmax, agreed.
“Our U.S. startup has been made easier with the assistance received from the Oakland County economic development team, the state of Michigan and Automation Alley. We look forward to exciting and sustained growth in the U.S,” Lester said.
Bmax is based in France and is a world-leading provider of magnetic pulse systems for metal processing.
“Our expansion into the U.S. is a vital step to our worldwide strategy of introducing clean, highly efficient and groundbreaking technologies to established as well as emerging industries,” Lester added.
Automation Alley’s 3,200-square-foot International Business Center includes three meeting rooms with state-of-the-art communications technology, three private offices, an open office area and convenient access to Automation Alley’s International Business Services staff.
In addition to temporary office space, tenants of the International Business Center receive assistance with site selection and introductions to potential business partners, clients and employees to jump-start their business.
“Automation Alley has a track record for attracting technology and manufacturing companies from around the globe to our region, helping to diversify our economy and create jobs,” said Automation Alley Executive Director Ken Rogers. “On behalf of our association, I’d like to welcome our new international tenants and wish them the best of luck as they seek permanent locations in Southeast Michigan.”
Source: Automation Alley
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