WALKER, MI — Jireh Metal Products, which makes goods for the furniture, automotive and security hardware industries, has received a $200,000 state grant for an expansion in Walker that’s expected to generate a $1.6 million capital investment and 50 new jobs.
The company, based in Grandville with 84 employees, expanded to a 30,000 square foot building at 2680 Elmridge Dr. NW in Walker.
The expansion is designed to help the company integrate its metal fabrication and assembly operations. Doing so would help control costs and manage the transition from prototypes to finished parts, according to a news release from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
“This expansion will enable us to provide exceptional service to our customers and cater to the increasing market demand for prototypes, R&D, and small-batch fabrication,” said Michael Davenport, president and CEO of the company.
Jireh Metal Products was founded in 1983.
The 50 new jobs are expected to pay an average wage of $748 per week plus benefits, according to the MEDC.
Andy Otteman, the company’s director of sales and marketing, said the $1.6 million capital investment is for new equipment at the Walker facility. That equipment includes a fiber laser, two press brakes, a turret punch press and more.
“Jireh Metal Products is investing more than $1.5 million in Kent County, creating 50 manufacturing jobs for Michiganders and building on Michigan’s economic momentum,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in a statement. “I am proud of our bipartisan efforts to grow our economy and create opportunity in every region of our state.”
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