State Approves Renaissance Zone to Support Request Foods Manufacturing Facility in Ottawa County

Approval of a 15-year, 23.82-acre Agricultural Processing Renaissance Zone (APRZ) in Holland Charter Township

LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced state approval of a 15-year, 23.82-acre Agricultural Processing Renaissance Zone (APRZ) in Holland Charter Township that will be home to the new Request Foods manufacturing facility. The project is expected to create up to 250 jobs and generate $35.2 million in private investment. 

“The expansion of one of the top frozen food providers in the nation will create jobs and spur economic development in the region,” Granholm said. “By partnering with our local communities, we are diversifying the state’s economy and creating new jobs.”

A Renaissance Zone allows a company operating within the zone to operate free of virtually all state and local taxes over the life of the designation.  

“Michigan’s renaissance zones are designed to encourage the growth of industries that are key to our long-term fiscal health,” Michigan Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Greg Main said. “This expansion is important in advancing agriculture and diversifying our economy.”  

The Michigan Commission of Agriculture unanimously approved the APRZ during a special meeting on May 19.

“Request Foods is one of the top frozen food providers in the U.S. and is currently purchasing about $50 million in supplies from Michigan producers and businesses and we are thrilled to have them call Michigan home,” Michigan Department of Agriculture Director Don Koivisto said. “Because of its diverse agricultural offerings, Michigan is primed for continued growth and new economic opportunities in the food processing industry.”

“We are pleased to work with Request Foods, Ottawa County and the state to facilitate this new expansion project and the creation of new jobs and capital investment in Holland Township,” Holland Charter Township Manager Don Komejan said.

Michigan’s Renaissance Zone program is administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The MEDC, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and a high quality of life.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.