Area Development
American Chemical Solutions recently acquired an idled chemical manufacturing plant in Muskegon, Michigan. The company plans to invest more than $15 million to operate its dye manufacturing facility, as well as contract production, on the 20 acre site.

The closed plant that previously manufactured functional dyes for use in thermal and carbonless printing applications was slated to be dismantled prior to ACS’s acquisition, according to Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

ACS will resume functional dye manufacturing and anticipates creating nearly 40 new full-time jobs.

The company was awarded a $200,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant as an incentive. ACS is led by CEO Dr. Todd Zahn, a Michigan resident who brings decades of experience and expertise in the chemical manufacturing industry to the role.

“ACS is proud to partner with the state of Michigan and officials from the city of Muskegon to restart an idled manufacturing facility here and create dozens of new jobs,” said Dr. Zahn.

“We see a unique opportunity to create a strong, vibrant manufacturing business, one that will meet the needs of our customers around the world while helping to spur our city’s ongoing renaissance. We are thankful for the continued support from both the community and the state, which is integral to a successful launch and to the bright future we hope to create here in Muskegon, Michigan,” he added.

“This is exciting news for our community,” said State Representative Terry Sabo. “High-tech manufacturing jobs are the future of Muskegon and Michigan’s economy, and this grant will allow American Chemical Solutions to provide opportunities for many hardworking families in the area to earn a decent living.”

“Today’s announcement is extremely exciting as it will not only revive a dormant chemical manufacturing facility that would have otherwise been demolished but will also bring significant investment and high-quality jobs to Muskegon County,” said Daryl Todd, Director of Talent Initiatives. “The confidence American Chemical Solutions’ placed in our community demonstrates the depth of manufacturing talent we have as well as the strength of the business-friendly environment we’ve created to attract new businesses. We congratulate American Chemical Solutions, welcome them to Muskegon County, and look forward to their growth.”

Jeff Mason, CEO, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, said, “The decision by American Chemical Solutions to expand in Michigan rather than in another state means good jobs for our residents and demonstrates the strength of our state’s manufacturing talent pool.”