Area Development
Chase Plastic Services, Inc., a specialty engineering thermoplastic stocking distributor, plans to expand its operations center, creating up to 14 new jobs by 2017 in South Bend, Indiana.

The Clarkston, Michigan-based company will invest $5.82 million to construct and equip a new 125,000 square-foot facility in South Bend. The facility, which will be fully operational by September 2015, will allow the company to expand its bulk storage space and enhance packaging and logistics capabilities by doubling its loading dock area.

Founded in 1992, Chase Plastics is a full-service thermoplastic stocking distributor serving plastic processors throughout North and Central America. The company provides engineering expertise, technical service, application development assistance, blending, repacking, inventory management and logistics services.

“After evaluating surrounding areas, we concluded that South Bend remains a logistical advantage for us to provide just-in-time and next-day delivery options to better serve our customers,” said Kevin Chase, President of Chase Plastics. “Our strong commitment to our existing team members and the tremendous support offered by the city of South Bend and the state in their efforts to make it advantageous to stay in Indiana for the foreseeable future also played a large role in our decision to build there. We are excited about our opportunity to grow our business and increase our involvement in the community.”

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Chase Plastic Services, Inc. up to $114,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company's investment plans. The city of South Bend approved additional incentives at the request of the Chamber of Commerce of St. Joseph County.

“Strong infrastructure and a central location are part of what makes Indiana a hub for business logistics,” said Eric Doden, President of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. “Companies also find low taxes, less red tape and an elite workforce here, making the Crossroads of America a great choice for companies like Chase Plastics.” Chase Plastics plans to begin hiring for direct labor, material handling and mid-management positions in early 2015.

“South Bend is a highly attractive location for distribution because of our proximity to the Great Lakes, excellent power and great access to rail and the interstate highway system,” said South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg. “Chase Plastics knows the competitive advantage of choosing South Bend. We thank Chase for retaining and adding good paying jobs in our community, and look forward to growing with them in their future success.”