Once known for its historic paper mills, the city of Plainwell is embracing a new chapter of economic growth with the arrival of Profielnorm US LLC.
The Netherlands-based mezzanine flooring specialist is establishing its first U.S. manufacturing facility in a newly developed industrial park, bringing a fresh wave of investment and job creation to the community.
The project, expected to generate up to $7.5 million in capital investment for the Allegan County community, will create about 30 jobs.
“We are very proud that Profielnorm has chosen Plainwell for its first manufacturing facility in North America,” says Justin Lakamper, Plainwell city manager. “This significant investment is expected to create jobs spanning trades, administrative roles, and engineering positions, providing great employment opportunities for our residents.
“Profielnorm will be joining a strong network of existing businesses in our industrial park, further establishing Plainwell as a hub for industry along U.S. 131.”
Profielnorm USA’s expansion is part of a broader regional economic initiative spearheaded by Lakeshore Advantage, which supported 16 business growth projects last year. These projects collectively represent $243.9 million in private investment and the creation or retention of more than 550 jobs in Ottawa and Allegan counties.
List of economic achievements
“Our region continues to demonstrate economic resilience and sustained growth,” says Jennifer Owens, president of Lakeshore Advantage. “The 2024 report showcases the continued confidence businesses have in our region. Each expansion represents a vote of confidence in our workforce, infrastructure, and economic landscape.”
The 2024 report highlights key regional economic achievements, including:
- A diverse range of businesses expanding or investing in the region.
- The construction and opening of The Next Center, a 20,000-square-foot innovation hub in downtown Holland. The class-A office building houses more than 30 startup companies, serves as Lakeshore Advantage headquarters, and showcases world-class furnishings from local manufacturers including MillerKnoll, Haworth, ROL, and Light Corporation.
- Support for 67 product and technology startups through Lakeshore Advantage’s SURGE program.
- More than $44.7 million in business support funds leveraged to aid employer expansions, worker training, export assistance, and new technology development.
- An in-depth research and analysis report on the West Michigan Advanced Energy Storage ecosystem, highlighting the region’s growing AES industry cluster.
- Research and outreach efforts involving more than 200 participants to better understand the needs and priorities of emerging workers in the region.
The Lakeshore region continues to serve as a hub for emerging technologies and homegrown businesses. Jolt Energy Storage Technologies, one of the area’s entrepreneurship success stories, secured $4 million in funding to advance the development and scaling of its organic flow battery. The company’s innovative, all-organic design offers a sustainable alternative to traditional energy storage, eliminating reliance on mined metals and reducing environmental and supply chain risks.
“Last year’s progress and steady growth allow us to thoughtfully build upon the big gains our region has experienced,” says Amanda Murray, vice president of business solutions at Lakeshore Advantage.
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