The Right Place assists Falk Panel with Walker expansion

The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), announced that panel production company Falk Panel will be expanding its facility at 1782 Northridge Drive in Walker. They are anticipating $35 million in new investments and the creation of an additional 45 new jobs with the support of a $270,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant.

Falk Panel is a manufacturing company that produces insulated metal panels. Located in Walker, Michigan, they are considered to have one of the most technically advanced panel production facilities in North America. Their extensive product lineup includes insulated wall, cold storage, and standing seam roof panels. They also supply fasteners, flashing, trim, tools, and vacuum lifting systems. Due to increased product demand, they are building a second metal panel manufacturing production line.

The Right Place worked closely with the MEDC to ensure the company continued its growth in the region rather than out-of-state locations. They offered support by effectively organizing state and local resources. This included collaboration with the MEDC to secure incentives through the Michigan Business Development Program. They also connected the company with West Michigan Works! and Grand Rapids Community College to assist with creating a plan to recruit and train new employees. The Right Place is also assisting the company with obtaining a PA 198.

Due to an existing PA 425 Agreement between the Cities of Grand Rapids and Walker, the project location is within the boundaries of the City of Walker but under the taxing jurisdiction of the City of Grand Rapids, which is working to facilitate an Industrial Facilities Tax Abatement (PA 198) for the project. The MEDC also authorized a State Education Tax Abatement to be used in conjunction with the locally approved abatement.

“Headquartered in the Netherlands, Falk Panel initially worked with The Right Place back in 2018 to establish their first North American operations right here in Walker,” said Brent Case, VP of Business Attraction of The Right Place and the lead on this project. “We’re thrilled to see the significant growth they’ve had over the past five years and happy that they’ve chosen to continue their expansion and investment in our region.”

“We are excited to have Falk expand their footprint in Walker. Since opening their doors in 2020, they have been an integral part of our growth in the Northridge industrial area. Their panels can be seen on many businesses throughout Walker and have become a source of pride for all of us,” said Gary Carey, Jr., Mayor of Walker. “The team at Falk continues to be a tremendous partner making investments not only in their business, but also our community. Falk is a perfect example of why Walker is known as a great place to live, work, and grow.”

For more information on open positions, visit falkpanel.com/careers.