August 22, 2007

Industrial equipment manufacturer grows Michigan operations

STOCKHOLM, Sweden - Following a meeting today with executives from Atlas Copco A.B. in Stockholm, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm announced the company plans to create 30 new jobs at its facilities in Oakland County. The new jobs will include experienced electrical engineers and sales/marketing positions.

"The world's most innovative companies are looking to Michigan to expand their reach in today's global marketplace," Granholm said. "Atlas Copco's decision to create new jobs in Oakland County is a reflection of our state's high-skilled workforce, strong business climate and high quality of life."

Granholm and Michigan Economic Development President and CEO James C. Epolito are in Sweden and Germany this week to encourage Swedish and German businesses seeking to expand their presence in the U.S. to do so in Michigan.  Oakland County Economic Development Deputy Director Maureen Krauss also attended today's meeting.

Atlas Copco is a leading provider of industrial productivity solutions. Established in the United States in 1950, Atlas Copco specializes in four business areas: compressor and generator range, construction and mining technique, construction tools, and industrial power tools. The company's tools and assembly systems organization headquarters and tech center is located in the Dutton Technology Park in Auburn Hills.
 
"Our strength in high-tech research and manufacturing innovation make our state a powerful competitor in the global arena," Epolito said. "We will continue to work with Atlas Copco to ensure the company's continued growth and success in Michigan."

Granholm also met today with executives from SECO Tools to encourage the company to expand its existing operations in Michigan. On Thursday and Friday, Granholm and Epolito will be in Germany to meet with officials of companies with operations in Michigan or considering locating in the U.S., including Behr-Hella Thermocontrol, EDAG Engineering, Maschinenfabrik Spaichingen, ersol Solar Energy AG, Brose and ZF Lemforder.