Pork rinds aren't normally associated with economic development in Michigan, but they're taking center stage in the latest round of tax abatement deals brokered by the Michigan Economic Development Corp.
Grandpapa's, a manufacturer and distributor of snack products, plans to invest $4.18 million in renovating and expanding his operation on the 5800 block of East 8 Mile Road. That includes purchasing and renovating a 130,000-square-foot facility next to its current operations.
"There is some work than needs to be done, but nothing major," says Michael Robin, president of Grandpapa's. "The building is in great shape."
The 40-year-old business will continue to make pork rinds and popcorn snacks at its current facility. It will transfer its other production work to the new location. The privately held Grandpapa's is also exploring an opportunity to produce fish and poultry food for export to Africa and Asia.
The company currently employs 23 people but plans to hire 73 more in its first year, and up to 125 over the next five years. In return it will receive a five-year $368,000 state tax credit. The city of Detroit is considering a tax abatement of $347,000.
Robin, a lifelong Detroiter, says it was his great working relationship with the city and Wayne County officials that made it attractive to him to expand in Detroit. He also sees it as a way of helping to improve his community.
Source: Michael Robin, president of Grandpapa's
Writer: Jon Zemke
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