Industrial Laser Solutions

Auto part maker Benteler adding industrial laser tools at Michigan plant

Dec. 12, 2012

Benteler Automotive reportedly is expanding its operations in the US with a $7.3M investment in new equipment for its facility in Grand Rapids, MI, including a laser cutting cell.

James Montgomery

Grand Rapids, MI - Benteler Automotive is expanding its operations in the US with a $7.3M investment in new equipment for its facility in Grand Rapids, MI, according to local reports.

The expansion will include a hot-form line, a laser cutting cell, and two welding cells, according to the city's economic development group. Benteler is seeking a 12-year property tax abatement for the line and cutting cell, adn a five-year abatement for the weld cells. All together those would help save the company about $35,000 per year, calculates the Grand Rapids Business Journal.

The expansion also will require 15 new hires, which will bring in another $5500 to the city's income tax, on top of the $15,000 from the new tool investments (via property taxes).

About the Author

James Montgomery | Associate Editor

James manages editorial production for news (online and print) and newsletters, as well as the magazines' new product sections. Jim has 13 years’ experience in producing Web sites and e-mail newsletters in various technology markets for CNet, ZDNet, Digital City Boston/AOL, and KM World.