Bleistahl North American Limited Partnership, a company that manufactures powder metal valve train components, will expand its factory in Battle Creek, Michigan. The $8.7 million project is expected to create 69 jobs.

The company is experiencing significant growth and will add new equipment and a fourth shift.

“We are thrilled to expand our manufacturing operations in Battle Creek, with the support of Battle Creek Unlimited, and the MEDC. Customer demand has increased, and we will subsequently need to increase our overall production,” said Bleistahl North America LP Managing Director Anthony Tuthill. “Battle Creek has a skilled and talented workforce, many of which have already joined our team, and we are excited to add to our team as we continue to grow.”?

The project is being supported by a $414,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. Battle Creek Unlimited, which helped secure the company’s facility in Battle Creek in 2012, has offered staff time and resources in support of the project. The company also works with Michigan Works! to reach local talent in disadvantaged areas, and has worked with the local nonprofit Kalamazoo Probation Enhancement Program (KPEP) to provide second chances to adult offenders as an alternative to incarceration.

“We are thrilled that Bleistahl has chosen to expand their operations in Battle Creek, Michigan,” said Battle Creek Unlimited President and CEO Joe Sobieralski. “Since 2013 Bleistahl has been providing quality jobs for our community and we are excited for their next chapter and growth in Battle Creek.”

Bleistahl North America’s parent, Germany-based Bleistahl GmbH & Co. KG, has been supplying parts for the auto industry worldwide since 1954.