Premier to invest $3.2 million, create 179 jobs

A global supplier of metal castings plans to invest $3.2 million in a new zinc and aluminum die cast and assembly operation in Dowagiac.

Premier Tool & Die Cast Corporation project could create up to 179 total jobs, 100 at the plant and 79 through increased economic activity.

The company will receive nearly $863,000 in tax credits over five years from the Michigan Economic Development Corp. A site in New York also was competing for the project.

The city of Dowagiac also may approve a tax abatement worth $4 million over 12 years for the project.

Premier Tool & Die was founded in 1963 by seven people using four die cast machines. Today the employee owned company employs 250 people working in three shifts. Premier uses specialty alloys to serve many industries including the automotive, heavy truck, agriculture, appliance, military, homeowner equipment and telecommunications industries.

The company has won several customer awards and enjoys top ratings with its customers for quality and delivery.  

The Premier project was one of 11 to receive incentives Aug. 17 to stay in Michigan. Together the projects are expected to create or retain nearly 2,740 jobs and generate $89.4 million in new investment in the state.

Writer: Kathy Jennings
Source: Michigan Economic Development Corporation