GRANHOLM - 2005 SUCCESSES

Governor Granholm’s five-day investment mission to Japan in the summer of 2005 secured commitments from 10 companies to invest a total of $116 million and create 630 new jobs in Michigan:

Hitachi Automotive is one of three core member companies of the Hitachi Group, a world leading maker of powerful, corporate transaction oriented mainframes as well as semiconductors, PCs and other information system and telecommunications technologies. In Michigan Hitachi is located in Farmington Hills and employs 130 people.
Sekisui Chemical is a diverse company with a range of products from housing and agriculture to medical, electronics, and automotive. Its Voltek division is located in Coldwater where it employs 170 individuals and generates sales approximately $60 million.
Nippon Antenna is undertaking a site search for a new R&D facility in Michigan. The company produces a variety of antenna devices, including automotive and satellite systems, and currently has a sales center in Farmington Hills.
Nippon Piston Ring is completing a new plant in Grand Haven under the name NPR Manufacturing Michigan and preparing to hire new workers. The company currently operates its Assembled Camshafts, Inc. in Grand Haven.
Advanced Special Tools in Battle Creek will create a new subsidiary called Advanced Plastics Molding in Battle Creek. AST currently employs 55 workers at its manufacturing facility in Battle Creek’s Fort Custer Industrial Park.
Nakagawa Special Steel is opening its first sales office in Novi. Nakagawa is a steel trading company, established in 1924, specializing in steel for manufacturing including automotive, industrial machines and home appliances.
Taiko Device Technologies is opening its first North American office in Southfield. Established in 1968, Taiok manufactures and sells various electronics devices such as relay systems for automobile use.
A&D Inc. is establishing A&D Technology Inc. as its wholly owned subsidiary in Ann Arbor to commence development of its DSP (Measurement, Control and Simulation Systems) business in the North American region. The company is investing $500,000 and hiring several employees. The company also recently acquired MTS Systems Corp.’s Powertrain Technology Division in Ann Arbor.
DENSO International America, Inc., the parent company for DENSO’s North American operations, oversees original automotive equipment sales, product engineering, and technical support for sales, finance, product market research, and North American expansion project support. DENSO will invest $36 million to expand its North American headquarters in Southfield and create 250 new jobs.
Tokai Rika, a manufacturer of automobile parts and censors, will invest $50 million to grow its operations in Battle Creek, Jackson, and Plymouth, creating 230 new jobs.