Plymouth-based optics manufacturer EOTech establishing new operations in Traverse City

Expansion will create 165 new manufacturing jobs, generate $9.6 million in private investment in Northern Michigan

 

LANSING, Mich. – EOTech, a leading manufacturer of optics for small weapon sights, is establishing new operations in Traverse City with support from the Michigan Strategic Fund, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced today. The company will also retain 145 jobs at its headquarters facility in Plymouth.

The project is expected to generate a total capital investment of $9.6 million in addition to the 165 new jobs, resulting in a $650,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. Michigan was chosen over a competing site in Ohio, ensuring the creation and retention of more than 310 manufacturing jobs here in the state.

“EOTech has set its sights on investing in our state and in our workforce, sending a clear message that Michigan’s economy is recovering and creating the momentum to build a championship economy here in the state,” said Josh Hundt, Chief Business Development Officer and Executive Vice President at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “We appreciate the efforts of our local partners in Traverse City to support this project and will work with EOTech over the coming months and years as it continues to grow and add jobs for Michigan residents.”

EOTech, LLC was established in 1995 as part of military and environmental research being conducted by the Environmental Research Institute of Michigan and has since grown to 145 employees who design, develop and manufacture the company’s Holographic Weapon Sights here in Michigan. The company has continued to experience rapid growth, including plans to expand its product offerings, and has outgrown its existing facility.

To accommodate that growth, which includes the creation of 165 new manufacturing jobs, EOTech has selected a facility in Traverse City for its manufacturing operations, including equipment for existing lines and new equipment for additional product lines. The company will also be expanding its headquarters in Plymouth.

“EOTECH is proud to partner with MEDC to expand our operations, create new jobs in Michigan and provide excellent service to our consumer, law enforcement and military customers,” said EOTech CEO Matt Van Haaren.

EOTech supports the personal growth of its employees and also focuses heavily on hiring veterans and people with disabilities, while aligning with key focus industries in MEDC’s strategic plan, including advanced manufacturing and engineering, design, and development. For information on careers with EOTech, visit https://www.eotechinc.com/company/eotech-careers.

The city of Traverse City has offered to support the project with staff, financial or economic assistance.

“The city of Traverse City's Planning and Zoning Department is encouraged by EOTech's investment to expand its manufacturing operations to Traverse City. Not only is the land use and development appropriate for the City's Master Plan, but the human investment and economic benefit will also have a positive impact for Traverse City, the surrounding region, and the state of Michigan,” said city of Traverse City Planning Director Shawn Winter. “The Planning and Zoning Department is eager to assist EOTech with this exciting project that aligns with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation strategic plan.”

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.