When Paul Dreher launched Modern Engineering Products, which later became simply Modineer, 77 years ago he did so with a sound plan and a simple philosophy: listen to the customer, respond quickly, and focus on quality. Now, the third generation of his family is at the helm and they’re hopeful that the state of Michigan will listen to local supporters, respond quickly, and allow them to continue to focus on quality by expanding their operations in Benton Charter Township.
Modineer Corporation is the metal stamping manufacturer which was born in 1940 and continues to grow from a modest garage-based company to a major employer producing high volume metal stampings and laser cut components from its headquarters in Niles and a stamping center at 2200 E. Empire Avenue that they have plans to expand by more than 35,000 square feet.
The expansion plan, which has been in the works with the help of the economic development team at Cornerstone Alliance for several months now, garnered local approval from the Board of Trustees at Benton Charter Township tonight. Cornerstone presented a bid for a tax abatement on behalf of Modineer’s team at the board meeting tonight and gained their approval to advance the plan.
It was the first step in a multi-step process to keep the company in Berrien County and keep them growing and hiring more Michigan workers. The expansion would retain 45 jobs in Berrien County and create more than 20 new jobs in Michigan’s Great Southwest.
Cornerstone Alliance’s Chief Operating Officer and Vice-President for Business Development, Greg Vaughn, says, “Modineer is a growing company and we are confident they will receive the necessary incentives from the State of Michigan for the expansion project to occur in Benton Charter Township.” He adds, “We appreciate the support of Benton Charter Township in securing the abatement, and will continue to work with the State to bring 21 new jobs to Michigan.”
Modineer is major employer supplying metal components to some of America’s best known companies. Still, the philosophy and family culture remain.
Modineer’s manufacturing capabilities range from high volume metal stampings to laser cut components, welded into finished assemblies. The wide array of capabilities has resulted in a healthy mix of business from a diverse customer base.
Cornerstone officials will continue to work side-by-side with local and state authorities to win the project and keep the expansion in SW Michigan. Stay tuned.
