Adrian Steel Company’s Expansion Creates 40 New Jobs

LANSING, Mich. - Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Board approval for Adrian Steel Company's expansion in Adrian (Lenawee County) that will create at least 40 new jobs and result in $43.4 million in capital investment to grow the economy.

"Michigan is on the move and open for business, competing for and winning big projects in industries like steel manufacturing," said Governor Whitmer. "Today's announcement will create 40 good-paying jobs and cement Michigan as the best place to build the future. Let's keep working together to create good-paying jobs, bring supply chains home from overseas, and tell Michigan's story."

"Today's approved project underscores the continued votes of confidence that industry-leading companies in manufacturing give our state," said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the MEDC and MSF Board Chair. "This industry is at the core of our state's heritage and future competitiveness. I congratulate Adrian Steel Company for choosing to 'Make It in Michigan' and thank Governor Whitmer, the members of the Michigan Strategic Fund Board, the Michigan Legislature and our economic development partners for the collaboration that made today happen."

Adrian Steel Company investing $43.4 million, adding at least 40 jobs to expand operations in Lenawee County

OVERVIEW: Adrian Steel Company is making a $43.4 million investment to significantly expand its operations in Adrian, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to Lenawee County and the state of Michigan. The MSF Board approved a $320,000 performance-based Michigan Business Development Program (MBDP) performance-based grant to support the company's expansion, which includes a 112,000-square-foot addition to its existing Adrian facility.

The expansion will enhance Adrian Steel's manufacturing capabilities with additional space dedicated to raw material storage, cutting, forming, welding, painting, assembly, office functions, and shipping operations-further strengthening the company's ability to serve customers across North America. Over the next five years, the project is expected to create at least 40 new jobs and bring Adrian Steel's total capital investment to $43,453,278.

In support of this investment, the MSF Board also approved a five-year, 100% State Essential Services Assessment (SESA) with an estimated value of up to $228,751 for $25,791,240 in eligible personal property. Additional support includes an anticipated real property tax abatement from the City of Adrian, along with a State Education Tax abatement authorized by the MEDC.

WHY IT MATTERS: This expansion marks Adrian Steel's largest investment in Michigan since 1953, underscoring its deep roots in the state and its ongoing confidence in Michigan's workforce, infrastructure, and manufacturing future. From its headquarters in Adrian, Adrian Steel has grown into a national leader in automotive aftermarket equipment and commercial cargo management solutions for skilled trades - while remaining proudly Michigan-based.

Beyond economic impact, Adrian Steel has a long-standing history of significant philanthropic investment and community support within the City of Adrian. The company actively contributes time, resources, and financial support to local organizations, initiatives, and causes that strengthen the community where its employees live and work-reinforcing Adrian Steel's role not only as a major employer, but as a committed corporate citizen.

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING:

"The City of Adrian recognizes Adrian Steel Company as a valued and longstanding community partner," said Lisa Hewitt-Cruz, community development director for the City of Adrian. "For generations, Adrian has invested in our community, provided quality employment opportunities for our residents, and contributed to the economic strength and stability of our city. We appreciate their continued commitment to our community and proudly support their ongoing success."

"An investment in Adrian Steel is an investment in Lenawee County and the state of Michigan. This $50 million grant will help the company grow and at the same time strengthen our manufacturing base. It's a smart, strategic investment that will help keep Michigan's economy strong in the future," said State Rep. Nancy Jenkins-Arno (R-Clayton).

"This is great news for our entire state. This project will create good-paying jobs for Michigan workers and bring a huge return on investment for state taxpayers," said State Sen. Joseph Bellino (R-Monroe). "I salute Adrian Steel Company for their commitment to our region and for being a great community partner for over 70 years. I also applaud all the local and state officials who helped make this investment a reality."

NOTE FROM THE MEDC: Investment and job numbers represent the commitment made by the business to the state of Michigan. Terms will be formalized in a performance-based project agreement, with funds disbursed as reimbursement based on eligible expenditures, and are subject to amendment or cancellation if the commitments are not met due to risks or uncertainties. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation provides a public annual report on agreements and their status to the state legislature.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state's marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan's economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn, and Twitter.