Area Development
Jireh Metal Products, a Tier 1 metal stamping and fabrication solutions company, plans to expand its operations in Walker, Michigan. The $1.56 million project is expected to create 50 jobs.

The company will lease an existing facility where it will add new equipment and do its assembly work, kitting and warehousing in this space as well. The investment will vertically integrate metal fabrication and assembly operations, giving Jireh better control over costs and the ability to manage the transition from prototype to finished part.

“Our partnership with The Right Place and MEDC has been invaluable in our decision to expand in the Greater Grand Rapids region,” said Michael Davenport, President & CEO of Jireh Metal Products. “This expansion will enable us to provide exceptional service to our customers and cater to the increasing market demand for prototypes, R&D, and small-batch fabrication.”

The project is being supported by a $200,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. In addition, the city of Walker has offered to support the project with workforce development assistance.

“Congratulations to the entire Jireh team on your continued growth and success. We’re pleased to celebrate your expansion in Michigan, and we appreciate your vote of confidence in our state and in our workforce,” noted MEDC Sr. Vice President of Regional Prosperity Matt McCauley. “We are grateful to the Governor, legislators and local officials for their continued support of the Michigan Business Development Program. We’re proud to join our local partners as we celebrate the expansion of one of the region’s largest minority-owned manufacturing companies, and we look forward to working together to grow, add jobs, and provide greater opportunity for our friends and neighbors in West Michigan.”

Founded in 1983 and headquartered in Grandville, Jireh is a Tier 1 supplier for OEMs in the furniture, auto, security and outdoor power equipment industries.

“We’re honored to have been able to assist Jireh Metal with their expansion in the city of Walker,” noted Eric Icard, Senior Director of Business Development at The Right Place and project lead. “Their decision to expand and remain in West Michigan highlights our region's strong business environment and exceptional talent pool. We look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.”