Heidtman's expansion adds 65 jobs in Monroe County

A company with several facilities in Monroe County will embark on a project that will create new local jobs.

Toledo-based Heidtman Steel Products will expand its operations in Bedford Township and the City of Monroe, including an investment of $9.1 million and the addition of 65 high-paying positions in the area.

The company, which has been operating since 1954, processes and distributes flat-rolled steel products across the country, Canada and Mexico, serving clients in the automotive, agriculture, furniture, heavy equipment and other industries. Its corporate sales office is headquartered in Erie Township.

Heidtman will partner with Indiana-based TNT Pipe and Tube LLC to operate a tube mill at 640 Lavoy Rd. in Bedford Township. The expansion also will spur increased growth at its Monroe location, a joint venture with Natinoal Galvanizing at 1500 Telb Rd. It is already accepting applications for the new positions.

Tim Barra, CEO and president of Heidtman, said the company has a long history in Monroe County and the project will help increase its ability to deliver high-quality products.

“Operating a value-added mill at our most established veteran-run campus is a natural extension of our business,” Barra added. “We are confident this will be a highly successful longstanding operation powered by the outstanding workmanship of Michigan’s finest people for many years to come.”

Bedford officials offered a 50% tax abatement to support the project, according to the Michigan Economic Development Corp.

The offer helped the company select Bedford for the expansion over a competing site in Indiana, according to a MEDC press release.

“This addition will bring much-needed economic development and jobs to our community,” said Bedford Township Supervisor Paul Pirrone. “I appreciate the collaboration and the work from all parties involved. This is excellent news.”

The project also received financial support from the Michigan Business Development Program, which is an economic business assistance initiative helmed by MEDC and the Michigan Strategic Fund.

MBDP awarded the project a $325,000 performance-based grant.

Josh Hundt, chief business development officer and executive vice president at the MEDC, said the project will help promote economic growth and recovery in the state.

“(It) will have a significant economic impact in these communities while creating high-paying jobs for our residents,” Hundt said. “We're pleased to work with our local partners and support these investments.”