“Today’s approved projects will bring up to 242 quality jobs to Detroit and Grayling Township and add to our storied reputation as leaders of the automotive industry and the Arsenal of Democracy,” said Governor Whitmer. “We welcome Laepple Automotive and Saab to Michigan and look forward to their future growth in the state together as we work to build our economy for Michiganders across the state.”
Automotive Industry Gains Momentum with Laepple’s New Headquarters
The Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) board has greenlit Laepple Automotive’s plan to transform Detroit’s historic Mount Elliott Tool and Die facility into its U.S. headquarters and primary operational hub. The project promises up to 173 new jobs and a capital investment of $93.4 million. The facility, which has stood vacant in recent years, will be revitalized with cutting-edge automotive manufacturing equipment, reflecting the company’s confidence in Detroit’s skilled labor force and industrial infrastructure.
“Detroit is the origin of the American automotive industry, and we are excited to open a new chapter in our company's history here,” said Oliver Wackenhut, CEO of Laepple Automotive. “With our expertise and passion for body-in-white manufacturing, we will not only bring the plant to life, but also offer our customers new opportunities for their projects by expanding our international footprint.”
The announcement comes at a pivotal time for Detroit, a city with a rich automotive history but also a challenging economic legacy. Local leaders hailed the decision, seeing it as a testament to Detroit’s ongoing resurgence. “This investment will not only bring new jobs and bolster our local economy, but will also ensure that the Motor City remains a key player in the automotive industry for years to come,” said state Senator Paul Wojno (D-Warren).
Saab’s Defense Facility: A Boon for Northern Michigan
Meanwhile, in Grayling Township, Saab will establish its first Michigan facility, focusing on the integration and assembly of advanced munitions systems for the U.S. military. This move aligns with the state’s strategy to deepen its foothold in the defense sector, supporting national security while stimulating local economic growth. Saab’s $75 million investment will create more than 70 high-wage jobs, spanning roles in manufacturing, testing, and engineering.
“Given current global security challenges, it is critical the United States strengthens our national defense capacity,” said Erik Smith, President and CEO of Saab in the U.S. “We are making a long-term commitment not only to the U.S. defense industrial base, but to the local community as well.”
Saab’s expansion comes as part of a broader push to diversify Michigan’s industrial base beyond its traditional automotive stronghold. With the state’s unemployment rate still recovering from the pandemic’s impact, such high-quality job creation is a welcome development for residents and local businesses alike.
Strategic Economic Development: The Bigger Picture
These investments are emblematic of Governor Whitmer’s broader “Make It in Michigan” economic strategy, which aims to attract diverse industries, foster job creation, and stimulate economic development across the state. Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, emphasized the significance of these projects in advancing the state’s economic goals.
“Today’s approved projects reflect Team Michigan’s commitment to our ‘Make It in Michigan’ economic development strategy focused on People, Places, and Projects,” Messer said. “We are grateful for the vote of confidence in our state and her residents given by Saab and Laepple as they ‘Make It in Michigan’ and build futures for employees and entrepreneurs.”
Broader Implications for Michigan’s Industrial Future
As Michigan continues to position itself as a hub for both automotive innovation and defense production, the investments by Laepple and Saab highlight the state’s dual strengths in manufacturing and technology. With the electric vehicle market rapidly evolving and defense budgets increasing, Michigan’s strategic investments today could pay dividends for years to come.
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