Gov. Whitmer Announces Funding for 110 New Jobs in Oakland County

LANSING, Mich. -- Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced MoldTecs and Matikon America will invest nearly $16 million to jointly expand operations in Auburn Hills, creating 110 new jobs.

“This key investment in Oakland County is more proof that Michigan is open for business and on the move,” said Governor Whitmer. “Today’s investment by MoldTecs and Matikon America will create 110 new, high-tech, good-paying jobs building on Michigan’s heritage in automotive manufacturing. Let’s continue working together to grow our economy, create good-paying jobs, and use every tool in our toolbox to put Michigan in the lead on the technology of the future.”

“Whether it’s manufacturing internal combustion engines or electric and hybrid vehicles, Michigan entrepreneurs and innovators are inventing the future,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Today’s announcement will grow our economy, create good-paying, high tech jobs of the future, and continue to cement Michigan’s reputation as the best place to have a new idea. Governor Whitmer and I will continue to Stand Tall so more individuals, families, and small business owners can ‘make it’ in Michigan.”

"Great news continues to emerge from Michigan. When you consider the growth across one of our core industries—along with choosing to further expand operations here—it’s clear that the Make It in Michigan economic development strategy is delivering results,” said Matt McCauley, Senior Vice President of Regional Development at the MEDC. “We commend MoldTecs and Matikon for their continued investment and confidence in our state.”

MoldTecs US LLC, headquartered in Bloomfield Hills, manufactures high performance plastic parts that include internal combustion engines, electric vehicle powertrain, hydrogen powertrain, tanks and complex molded systems. Matikon America Inc, headquartered in Auburn Hills, specializes in high-quality systems solutions for vehicles.

In the past three years, private equity group Mutares has acquired both companies. Being able to leverage both companies’ expertise, they have decided to jointly announce their plans to launch full production of their program parts at an existing facility in Auburn Hills, which will include investing in 13 injection molding machines and six assembly lines.

"We see tremendous opportunity in Michigan. Between the strategic advantage of working with our sister company Matikon, the robust manufacturing base that attracts talent and innovation and the strong commitment from the government at all levels, Michigan provides the perfect launchpad for ambitious businesses,” noted Chip Vogel, President, MoldTecs America. “We are excited to be in Michigan and confident to build our future here.”

They anticipate the capital investment will be at least $15.8 million and will lead to the creation of at least 110 new jobs. Newly created jobs will have average starting wages of $29.00 per hour plus benefits, over $6.00 more than the regional median wage. The Michigan Strategic Fund has provided support for this investment through the Michigan Business Development Program in the form of a $1 million performance-based grant.

“We have worked hard at the Capitol to make Michigan one of the best states in the nation to do business and this $1 million grant only builds on that progress by allowing MoldTecs US LLC and Matikon America, Inc. to expand their operations to Auburn Hills, bringing over 100 high-paying jobs and $15.8 million in capital investment home to Oakland County,” said Sen. Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield). “This project is a long-term economic win for our state and local community, and I look forward to seeing the benefits of this business investment come to fruition right here in our district.” 

“The move by MoldTecs US to collaborate with Matikon America and expand their footprint into Auburn Hills is great news for both companies and their growing workforce, as well as the broader Oakland County and regional economies,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “The nearly $16 million investment helps cement the region’s status as a prime location for auto suppliers to land and grow.”

The companies were considering sites in Mexico, however, given the proximity to customers, being presented an opportunity to utilize the existing facility in Auburn Hills and support from the MSF, the companies chose to make their investment here in Michigan.

“If you’re an international automotive supplier looking for a foothold in the U.S. for your manufacturing operations, there’s no place better than the Detroit Region,” said Maureen Donohue Krauss, president and CEO of the Detroit Regional Partnership. “We are home to the densest automotive and mobility cluster in the country with a world-class workforce and supply chain that allows suppliers to make their products here, while better serving their customers across North America.”

Manufacturing and innovation are in Michigan’s DNA. We put the world on wheels years ago and now are leading the charge into next generation transportation and manufacturing. The MEDC remains committed to building on the state's strong manufacturing heritage, while also being a place where big ideas in mobility and electrification are born, developed, tested and deployed.

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.