Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announces adhesive manufacturer tesa tape expansion in West Michigan, adding high-wage jobs

tesa plant investing $36 million to expand its manufacturing operations in Sparta, underscoring Michigan’s leadership in advanced manufacturing

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) today to announce that tesa SE, a global manufacturer of pressure-sensitive adhesives, is expanding in its plant in Sparta with support from the Michigan Strategic Fund. The project is expected to require a total capital investment of $35.6 million and create at least 25 well-paying jobs in West Michigan, which will be supported by a Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant of up to $450,000. Michigan was chosen for the expansion over the company’s existing facility in Massachusetts.

“Michigan’s business climate and highly skilled manufacturing workforce are creating an environment where businesses like tesa tape can thrive and grow, creating good jobs around the state,” said Governor Whitmer. “This expansion in Sparta cements tesa tape’s presence in West Michigan and adds momentum to our efforts to ensure Michigan’s manufacturers lead the way in advanced manufacturing and workforce needs. With the help of companies like tesa tape, we can build back our state’s economy stronger than ever.” 

tesa plant Sparta, LLC is a subsidiary of Germany-based tesa SE, a leading manufacturer of self-adhesive solutions serving the appliance, automotive, building supply, electronics, industrial, paper and print, and transportation industries. The company has been offering special adhesive tapes for the automotive sector for 90 years and currently has nearly 5,000 employees worldwide. tesa plant Sparta began operating in 1982, the company’s first operations outside of Europe at the time. Today, tesa plant Sparta produces special tapes for cars, appliances, and packaging, and employs 125 people.

The company is experiencing continued growth and plans to expand its operations in the village of Sparta. A major component of this project will include adding state-of-the-art equipment with eco-friendly production technology. The company recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new construction at its facility in Sparta.

“The enormous investment in our tesa plant in Sparta is a big step towards being able to offer customers from important industrial sectors – such as the automotive and building industries –more sustainable and innovative self-adhesive technologies and products”, said Daniel Germain, tesa Regional Manager North America. “For almost 40 years, the tesa plant in Sparta has been closely linked to the region and is an important local employer. I am very happy that our economic commitment is supported by the Michigan Strategic Fund.”

The project further builds on Michigan’s leadership position in advanced manufacturing and will solidify the company’s future growth in the state. The project will provide well-paying pathway jobs to area residents with the opportunity to gain transferrable skills in advanced manufacturing. tesa also provides training opportunities and places priority on promoting from within.

“tesa’s continued growth in Michigan is an important vote of confidence in Michigan and sends the message that real momentum continues to build as we shape a championship economy here in the state for all Michiganders,” Quentin Messer, Jr., CEO of the MEDC and President and Chair of the Michigan Strategic Fund. “We’re pleased to work with The Right Place and other local partners to support the growth of tesa tape in Michigan and look forward to working together as they continue to add jobs here.”

The village of Sparta has offered a 50-percent property tax abatement in support of the project. The Right Place worked closely with tesa and MEDC to ensure the company continued its growth in the region rather than other out-of-state locations that were considered.

For information on careers with tesa, visit https://www.tesa.com/en-us/about-tesa/career.

“tesa’s decision to expand in Greater Grand Rapids is a prime example of the region’s status as a globally competitive destination for business,” said Olivia Lanctot, Business Development Coordinator and project lead for The Right Place, Inc., “Over the last 35 years, our region has established itself as a destination for business success. We have skilled talent, economic growth potential and an incredibly strong business community that allows us to position ourselves advantageously on a global scale.”

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.