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Telecommunications systems

Michigan Companies Announce Major Expansions and Collaborations in February

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Michigan-based companies are continuing to invest in their operations and form partnerships to drive growth and innovation. The Whirlpool Corp. has announced a $100 million expansion of its Clyde, Ohio, washing machine manufacturing plant, citing the retention of approximately 3,000 jobs and creation of 150 jobs over the next three years. Meanwhile, former Chrysler executive Dennis K. Pawley has joined the board of directors of auto supplier Oxford Automotive Inc., bringing his expertise in shaping successful factory operations and building relationships with labor unions. Additionally, Steelcase Inc. is working with Lucent Technologies to jointly market Lucent's computer cabling system with Steelcase's furniture and related products, aiming to integrate desks and other furnishings with networked computers. Meanwhile, Meritor Automotive Inc. has completed the $390 million cash buyout of LucasVarity's Heavy Vehicle Braking Systems business, expanding its operations in Europe. Retailer Kmart Corp. is also getting into the automotive scene by sponsoring the 47th annual Detroit Autorama custom car show, with 800 exhibits of hot rods and custom vehicles on display.

Key Takeaways:

  • Whirlpool Corp. is expanding its Clyde, Ohio, washing machine manufacturing plant in a $100 million project, retaining 3,000 jobs and creating 150 jobs over the next three years.
  • Dennis K. Pawley, former executive vice president of manufacturing at Chrysler Corp., has joined the board of directors of Oxford Automotive Inc., bringing his expertise in factory operations and labor union relationships.
  • Steelcase Inc. and Lucent Technologies are forming an alliance to jointly market Lucent's computer cabling system with Steelcase's furniture and related products.
  • Meritor Automotive Inc. has completed the $390 million cash buyout of LucasVarity's Heavy Vehicle Braking Systems business, expanding its operations in Europe.
  • Kmart Corp. is sponsoring the 47th annual Detroit Autorama custom car show with 800 exhibits of hot rods and custom vehicles on display.
  • The Michigan companies' expansions and collaborations aim to drive growth, innovation, and job creation in the region.

Statistics:

  • The Whirlpool Corp.'s expansion project is estimated to cost $100 million.
  • The expansion is expected to retain 3,000 jobs and create 150 jobs over the next three years.
  • The Meritor Automotive Inc. buyout was for $390 million in cash.
  • Kmart Corp. is sponsoring the 47th annual Detroit Autorama custom car show, with 800 exhibits on display.

Sources:

  • "Whirlpool announces Ohio expansion." UPI, February 1.
  • "Ex-Chrysler exec Pawley on Oxford board." UPI, February 1.
  • "Steelcase, Lucent working together." UPI, February 1.
  • "Meritor closes on LucasVerity deal." UPI, February 1.
  • "Kmart to sponsor Autorama." UPI, February 1.

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