Haworth bringing 649 jobs to W. Mich

HOLLAND, Mich. (WOOD) - More than 600 new Haworth jobs are coming to West Michigan.

The office furniture maker is consolidating its Calgary, Alberta operations, and moving walls and wood furniture production to existing facilities in Holland and Big Rapids. A company statement says it is "due to excess capacity as a result of the global economic environment, and to better coordinate integrated product strategies."

Haworth is one of four local companies that have received Michigan Economic Growth Authority (MEGA) tax credits. An announcement was made Tuesday in Lansing.

Haworth received a 13-year, $22.4 million tax incentive package. Over the next five years, the project will create 649 direct jobs. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) estimates increased economic activity created by the project will create an additional 742 indirect jobs. The process should begin in the coming months and be completed in 2010, according to Haworth.

The city of Big Rapids is considering an abatement valued at $193,000 in support of the project. The city of Holland also is considering an abatement valued at $900,000 in support of the project.

Haworth says its "customers and dealers will experience an even higher level of service and, due to manufacturing proximity to more markets, additional LEED points will be possible. For Haworth, the result will be a stronger competitive position, a smaller manufacturing footprint and reduced transportation costs."

Franco Bianchi, Haworth president and CEO, said in the statement, "Haworth remains financially strong and strategically focused. We continue to secure the financial stability we have achieved over our 61 years in business. Even in these difficult economic times, we will continue to grow market share with our unique integrated strategy. As we have adjusted the business, we continue to invest by redesigning our company to better serve the markets of the future."

On the Net:

www.haworth.com

www.organicworkspaces.com