A World of Global Growth

A growing international community, skilled workforce, and proximity to key customers and suppliers have made West Michigan a successful location for nearly 90 foreign-owned firms. For over two decades, The Right Place has assisted the location and expansions of European and Asian firms, making West Michigan one of the top U.S. metropolitan areas for European expansion.

The Right Tools for Trade

Foreign-owned firms will find a wealth of resources in West Michigan including an extensive network of contacts, professional associations, trade assistance and tools. In fact, Michigan’s Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) are among the most active in the U.S. according to the National Association of Foreign Trade Zones.

The advantage of an FTZ is that companies using the zone can defer, delay or altogether eliminate U.S. customs duties. Columbian Logistics Network is the operator of the Kent-Ottawa-Muskegon counties' general purpose foreign trade zone. The zone boasts nine loading docks, two rail spurs for inbound and outbound shipments and electronic security. The facilities are food grade licensed. In addition, ESCO Co. and Diesel Technology operate subzones in the Grand Rapids area.

Networks Foreign and Domestic

West Michigan is more than a collection of foreign-owned firms, it’s also a region that welcomes and supports the international staff and families of area companies. From places of worship, to neighborhood markets, to professional networking opportunities, people of all cultures find room to grow here. For more information on West Michigan’s international flare, visit our Live and Work pages.