DEGC is dedicated to providing support to Detroit-based businesses. Through our Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) program – part of DEGC’s Economic Development and Investment Services Team – we promote expansion, workforce development and resources that aid in the growth of Detroit businesses and our economy. While we continue to drive new investment, statistics show the majority of job growth stems from the growth of existing companies.
Detroit Manufacturing Systems LLC (DMS) is a company that continues to support Detroit and our goals for the City’s business community. DMS began in 2012 on the City’s west side as a joint venture between Rush Group Limited LLC and Faurecia. Starting with only 25 employees making injection-molded components to support the region’s strong automotive industry, DMS experienced rapid growth, opening a second facility in Toledo and employing more than 1,200 employees between both locations. Today, Bruce Smith leads this dynamic minority-owned company as Chairman and CEO.
With a strong leadership team, DMS is ready to expand its Detroit operations, thanks in part to DEGC. Last month, the Michigan Strategic Fund approved a $1.5 million Jobs Ready Michigan Program grant to help offset the costs of expanding in Michigan, allowing DMS to continue its work in the city of Detroit. DMS is investing $31.9 million at its current Detroit location, which will include repurposing its existing 482,000 sq.-ft. manufacturing facility and expanding to occupy an additional 60,000 sq.-ft.
DMS strives for employee excellence and this new project will bolster new training initiatives as well as a workforce addition of approximately 225 new jobs. BR&E has worked closely with DMS leadership to promote Detroit for this new development and has secured workforce dollars through Detroit at Work to assist with recruiting and training efforts. DMS invests heavily in its employees to maintain a highly skilled workforce. In addition to its mandatory training classes and on the job training, the company partners with Wayne County Community College District to support entrepreneurship and skills training. Part of its new investment will also include updated technology to create a safer, more efficient and sustainable workspace.
DMS is active in providing equitable employment opportunities to Detroiters. Amidst the economic setbacks brought on by COVID-19, we are proud to bring forward this investment and win for the City of Detroit.