SERVING WEST MICHIGAN BUSINESS SINCE 1988

2021 Media Kit STEM nonprofi t Tech repair founder: ‘I’m companies trying to fi ll a try to keep up pipeline’ with demand PAGE 22 PAGE 19

SEPTEMBER 28, 2020 • VOL. 32/NO. 25 • $3.00 SERVING WESTERN MICHIGAN BUSINESS SINCE 1988 www.mibiz.com ‘No path back EGLE director Nonprofi ts to normal’ on 2050 seek restored Hotel industry on edge as carbon neutral charitable giving summer tourism boost wanes roadmap tax credits

PAGE 22 PAGE 21 By KATE CARLSON | MiBiz [email protected] OCTOBER 12, 2020 • VOL. 32/NO. 26 • $3.00 SERVING WESTERN MICHIGAN BUSINESS SINCE 1988 www.mibiz.com ccupancy rates are slowly inching back up, but regional tourism lead- ers say it will take years for hotels to make up for lost profits caused by Grand Action the COVID-19 pandemic. Metro Health pursuing open-heart surgery program in GR OWhile the pandemic initially caused occu- pancy rates to nosedive and hotels to reduce staff reboot eyes and cut rates, ongoing limited indoor gatherings By MARK SANCHEZ | MiBiz septal defects, and “other identified appropri- care. We are proud to help have cramped another key source of revenue: [email protected] ate services.” make this a reality,” Metro business meetings and conventions. The end of Metro Health would spend $3.2 million to Health President and CEO downtown summer tourism is exacerbating the concern. etro Health-University of Michigan renovate and remodel space at its Wyoming Peter Hahn said in a state- “We’re really hoping the governor will provide Health likely will proceed with hospital to perform heart surgeries, according ment to MiBiz. us some guidance in the near future on how we seeking state approval to per- to the Oct. 8 letter of intent to the state. The letter of intentBy MARKto SANCHEZ | MiBiz amphitheater can re-engage meetings and events,” said Peter form open-heart surgery in Grand The move comes nearly four years after Metro the state signals a [email protected] pro- Beukema, CEO of Hudsonville-based Suburban MRapids, a move that would bring more competi- Health was acquired by University of Michigan vider’s interest in seeking a By ANDY BALASKOVITZ | MiBiz Inns. “Without a path or timeline to reopen, tion for the procedure to the local market. Health System and Michigan Medicine, its aca- certificate of need (CON) to s the weather cools [email protected] winter approaches, health professionals there is no pipeline. Even the bookings going In a filing last week to the Michigan demicREMAIN medical center in Ann Arbor. launch a new clinical ser- Hahn warn about complacency and encourage residents and businesses into next summer are really scarce just because Department of Health and Human Services, “Michigan Medicine is world-renowned for vice. Care providers typically willto file remain a letter vigilant of in theGRAND COVID-19 RAPIDS pandemic. — The business group that there’s no path back to normal.” Metro Health indicated it may pursue regula- cardiovascular care. This new program will bring intent that places them in line for stateHealth review departments pushed in Ottawa several and major Ingham developments counties overeach the past Suburban Inns — which operates eight hotels, tory authority to launch coronary artery bypass that expertise to West Michigan, giving patients during that quarter as the providerissued makes orders a final this month25 years in responsehas multiple to COVID-19 new priority outbreaks projects, includ- most in West Michigan — has had about 170 wed- surgery, cardiac valve repair or replacement, choiceVIGILANT and access to the most sophisticated decision on whether toAamong proceed. students at Grand Valleying State a downtown University Grand and Rapids Michigan amphitheater. State ding groups and events canceled since April, repair for birth defects of the heart known as treatments and world-class cardiovascular SeeUniversity METRO HEALTH. on page 3 Grand Action, which reconvened earlier this Beukema recently told MiBiz. Its hotels are now After six months of the COVID-19 More than six months into theyear pandemic, after a nearly the situations three-year at hiatus, both univer- is studying the at around 50 percent occupancy, which indus- pandemic, West Michigan health sities reflect a sense of complacencyfeasibility toward of the an needamphitheater, for people expanded to protect conven- try officials say is roughly the break-even point. themselves from COVID-19, accordingtion center to health space professionals and a professional interviewed soccer for field. Doug Small, executive director of Experience experts warn of complacency as this story. These experts worry aboutOn higher Oct. risk 2, factorsthe Grand that comeRapids-Kent with cold County Grand Rapids, said April was the worst month seasons change weather and generate the potentialConvention/Arena for increased infection Authority rates and board outbreaks. approved a res- for hotels in Kent County as companies reported “We’re at a very delicate positionolution at thisauthorizing moment, the and authority how the to rest“proceed of with an 18 percent average occupancy rate. The rate this plays out really depends onefforts people to indetermine the community whether continuingthere is an appropriate to was 66 percent in April 2019. The occupancy rate be diligent,” said Dr. Adam London,site for director the location of the of Kent an amphitheater.” County Health improved to about 43 percent by July, but that’s Department. Grand Action has effectively taken over those compared to 71 percent in July 2019, Small said. effortsSee from FALL a task HEALTH force appointed OUTLOOK onby pagethe CAA 18 Board. See HOTEL INDUSTRY on page 8 Grand Action has “embraced this potential (amphitheater) project and likely will get involved in its planning and fundraising for it,” Steve Heacock, president and CEO of Grand Rapids Whitewater and CAA board member, said during GR airport traffi c rebounds, though businessthe meeting. travel “We don’t know and that for stimuluscertain yet, concerns loom but that’s a very, very good potential.” Heacock added that multiple studies over By ANDY BALASKOVITZ | MiBiz air travel companies to avoid layoffs — extended beyond Oct. 1, and the recent years have all concluded a downtown [email protected] and maintain operations through threat of layoffs may be “a little bit of amphitheater would result in positive economic September. Without additional relief hype in trying to leverage” action from activity, and that “site selection is the next big step.” GRAND RAPIDS — Passenger travel from Congress, airlines have said up to federal lawmakers, Richardson said. has steadily rebounded since the tens of thousands layoffs could come But while he’s noticedTwo airlines potential pivot sites on Market Avenue along the depths of the pandemic slowdown, starting next month. to offering more “sunGrand and River fun” havedesti- been previously mentioned: 201 but Grand Rapids airport officials “Sept. 30 is a big date for a lot of us,” nation flights, theMarket lingering SW, uncer- where the city recently walked away are concerned about the uncertainty Tory Richardson, president and CEO tainty remains overfrom business a separate travel, $270 million development deal, over future business travel as well as of the Gerald R. Ford International which tends to guideand airlines’ 63 Market decision Ave. SW, the site of the former MEDIA ASSETS a looming CARES Act deadline that Airport, told MiBiz last week. making in certain markets,Charley’s including Crab restaurant. could cause tens of thousands of lay- Airlines want to see the federal Grand Rapids. The three development projects have been on Hikers in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore inoffs the at Upper airlines. Peninsula. PHOTO COURTESY OF PUREPayroll MICHIGAN Support Program — which “Airlines are reallythe radar concerned of civic leaders, The developers Gerald R. Fordand city International offi- Airport recently announced an expansion Airlines’ $25 billion lifeline as part provides airlines direct support for they’re not seeingcials business for nearly traffic five years.that could support international flights long term, but passenger travel is filled of the federal CARES Act required the employee wages, salaries and benefits See GR AIRPORTGrand on Action, page 3 whichwith dissolved uncertainty at thein the end coming of months. COURTESY RENDERING 2017 and relaunched in March under new leader- By MARK SANCHEZ | MiBiz the pandemic, and with the ship, has retained consulting firm CSL to provide a [email protected] restoration of limited funding, With limited fundingPERIODICALS new market feasibility study on the projects. The Travel Michigan Vice President study is expected in late November. he Pure Michigan cam- Dave Lorenz sees an urgency to Grand Action 2.0 is led by Carol Van Andel, Dick paign that touts the ramp the Pure Michigan cam-‘We’reDeVos and Tom Welch, regional president of Fifth restored, Pure Michigan state as a travel destina- paign back up this fall — in Third Bank. DeVos is the only holdover from the pre- INSIDE: tion should return soon some form — to support theback’ vious Grand Action team that was also co-chaired by Tto spur fall and winter travel tourism industry that’s popu- John Canepa and David Frey, both of whom retired. Diversity, shifts focus to fall and and help tourism-reliant small lated by many small businesses.Angel investorsFormed in 1992, the original Grand Action businesses that were hit hard When working with limitedemerge fromgroup pushed major downtown develop- Equity & this summer by the COVID-19 funding, Travel Michigan would ments such as Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place pandemic. typically put its resources intopandemic Convention lull Center, the relocation of Michigan Inclusion winter tourism As Michigan’s tourism the “big season” and promote State University’s medical school to Grand Rapids PAGE 7 industry continues to reel from See PURE MICHIGAN on page 15 and the Secchia Center, the Downtown Market, SEE PAGE 12 renovation of DeVos Performance Hall and the Grand Rapids Civic Theater.

PERIODICALS Golf courses bounce back with INSIDE: banner Industry MiBiz is the top source for business news in summer PAGE 12 4.0 SEE PAGE 5 West, Southwest and Central Michigan.

We reach more than 125,000 business readers WEBSITE 12 MONTHS ENDED 9/30/2020 PRINT EDITION each month with a bi-weekly print edition, web BIWEEKLY coverage, e-newsletters and social media 4.7 1.3 updates. million million 923,000 MAILED CONTROLLED CIRCULATION MiBiz’s unique regional perspective has earned it a “Must Read” reputation with C-suite executives, 10,600 CIRCULATION business owners, professional advisers, policy C-SUITE, OWNERS, ADVISERS, makers and influencers throughout Michigan 3.6 4.19% POLICYMAKERS and the Midwest. WEST, SOUTHWEST, MID MICHIGAN We provide a comprehensive and analytical look at the region’s economic activity with daily coverage of the industries that drive Michigan business: manufacturing, healthcare, agribusiness, real estate, E-NEWSLETTERS 2020 STATS SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWERS finance, energy, nonprofits and professional services. We offer unparalleled coverage of the region’s 12,341 11,121 9,509 merger, acquisition, venture capital, 7,242 private equity and capital formation public activities. 2,917 For more detailed demographic and geographic information about MiBiz, contact [email protected]. 3,277 37,065* READERSHIP PER ISSUE READERSHIPPRINT BROADEST MARKET EXPOSURE DEMOGRAPHICSREADERSHIP Executive readers in more than 20 counties in Michigan GEOGRAPHIC will see your message, opening new markets in which to do business. DISTRIBUTION

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45.9% Desktop 50.9% Mobile 3.2% Tablet 2020 Athena ‘Well-intentioned’ Award winner eviction moratoriums Tasha may cause homelessness Blackmon bottleneck PAGE 26 PAGE 25

SEPTEMBER 14, 2020 • VOL. 32/NO. 24 • $3.00 SERVING WESTERN MICHIGAN BUSINESS SINCE 1988 www.mibiz.com Michigan’s surprise billing legislationCOVID-19 attracts SPECIAL REPORT MARCH 30, 2020 • VOL. 32/NO. 12 • $3.00 SERVING WESTERNnational MICHIGAN BUSINESS attention SINCE 1988 www.mibiz.com

TO OUR By MARK SANCHEZ | MiBiz [email protected] Arsenal READERS, legislative effort to curtail surprise ADVERTISERS ‘CAN medical billing in Michigan has of health: MIBIZ 2021 EDITORIAL CALENDAR gained attention from national Manufacturers shift AND BUSINESS health care organizations shift- SIX MONTHS IN Aing their focus to states amid stalled efforts operations to meet needs Small businesses reflectPARTNERS: on the ups, downs, YOUoptimism federally. One of those groups says the Michigan during pandemic and bleakness of the COVID-19 pandemic. SEE PAGE 10. legislation moving toward final passage could rdinarily, our next even serve as an example for other states to By JESSICA YOUNG | MiBiz print issue would follow when considering surprise billing [email protected] have arrived in HURRYlegislation. BY ANDY BALASKOVITZyour mailboxes | MiBiz “We think that Michigan thus far is a emand for the mobile computer Otoday. But because we are model,” said James Gelfand, senior vice pres- workstations produced by Walker- Contracts living in extraordinary times, ident of health policy for the Washington, based health care furniture manu- the paper isn’t there. D.C.-based ERISA Industry Committee facturer Altus Industries Inc. had Instead, we produced an UP?’ whose members include large employers Dalready begun to spike as hospitals started set- enhanced digital edition and Race to add hospital capacityacross the country. ting up quarantine and triage areas in prepara- a downloadable PDF version “The Michigan debate so far is heav- tion for an influx of COVID-19 patients. of the March 30 edition that keeps West Michigan ily favoringZeeland-based patients,” GelfandMedViron added. has received“One numerous Then as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a was emailed to our 21,000+ unique ordersthing about for its the overbed Michigan tables bills from is that health systems stay-at-home executive order on March 23, print and e-newsletter sub- manufacturers on the job it is veryacross patient-centric the country andthat areuses ramping market up capacity to Altus began getting requests for a product not Issue Date Deadline Focus Topic Extras scribers. We’re also posting mechanisms,deal with as opposed COVID-19 to being patients. a giveaway COURTESY PHOTO yet in the company’s wheelhouse: mobile ven- the digital versions on our to these hospitals and doctors.” tilator carts. website to make it available By JOE BOOMGAARD | MiBiz The ERISABut thenIndustry the company Committee started recently getting emails and “We had a customer to the tens of thousands of [email protected] submittedphone written calls testimony from large to a health state Senate systems across the using one of our carts non-subscribers that visit committeecountry in stronginquiring support about forMedViron’s surprise overbed tables already as a ventila- our website and social media ZEELAND — As Brad Davis tracked news about billingthe legislationand the lead that times state to lawmakers get orders filled.have One order led tor cart — it was close channels. spread of the coronavirus in early March, he cauworked- to on another for a year and and all aof half. a sudden, the company’s strat- enough,” Altus co-owner We also lowered our pay- tioned his production team at MedViron LLC that egy had to change. Eric Kahkonen told MiBiz. See SURPRISE BILLING on page 12 wall on March 16 to make all the company might need to shut down to do its part “I have big hospital systems that are contacting The engineering team of our coverage of the coro- with social distancing. us in a panic needing overbed tables in order to get at Altus got to work using January 4 December 23 Telemedicine Index of M&A from 2020 navirus pandemic free to At the time, his thinking was rooms open,” Davis said. “All of a sudden, it was like the company’s standard readers. And our newsroom that the maker of medical fur- boom: In 24 hours, we had an order and we’re told components to configure has stepped up its cover- nishings had no need to keep that there’s going to be another order coming for Kahkonen a cart designed to sup- age of business news, policy production running. The best another 30 units, and then we got another order from port ventilators, which SAUGATUCK 5.0?updates and what all this thing for the company and the (an existing customer) who’s all of a sudden moving mechanically “breathe” for patients unable to COVID-19 drives business and civic leaders to turnmeans the for Saugatuck-Douglas West Michigan employees was for them all to do forward on a project. I think it’s just the start.” do so on their own. The COVID-19 virus attacks lakeshore tourist spot into a year-round destinationcompanies and the region’s their part in helping “flatten the Davis said Wednesday the company had an order the lungs and, in severe cases, makes breath- economy. curve” and curb the spread of the backlog of nearly 300 units, with a realistic expec- ing difficult and requires medical ventilators. The print version of pandemic. tation that it would grow to nearly 900 units by the After just a few days, the first ventilator Davis By KATE CARLSON | MiBiz A group of community leadMiBiz- Now will the be back.group Over is starting the to look “If we have to shut down, we end of the week. One customer from New York asked carts were already in production. Altus has January 18 January 6 Industry 4.0: Smart Factories [email protected] ers from Saugatuck, Douglas andnext attwo larger, weeks, foundational we’ll be giv- issues surhave- to shut down, that is what it is,” said Davis, the if they could get the tables within two weeks as the begun taking orders for ventilator carts as well Fennville started meeting informallying printrounding subscribers the area’s the short touristfounder and president of MedViron. “I don’t give a shit hospital races to increase its bed space. as telemedicine carts, which allow doctors and SAUGATUCK — Business and civic through regular Zoom meetings in theoption season to have that MiBiz could mailed leave it vulnerabout- making money — it’s bloody serious; it’s scary.” See MEDICAL FURNITURE on page 5 See RETROFITTING on page 4 leaders along the West Michigan early stages of the pandemic, referringto theirable homes to future or offices, unexpected or events. lakeshore realized in March that to themselves as “Saugatuck 5.0.” to receiveHowever, a digital the group edition faces in a series of COVID-19-related shutdowns They tackled immediate needstheir obstacles email inbox. to their If you’re goals, a including could have a devastating effect on like setting up a small businessregular lacking print subscriber,a key economic look develop- the already short summer tourism COVID-19 loan and grant fund,for anment email agency from andus on inadequate how wire- season that fuels the beach towns’ and forming consistent safety proto- doless this. internet infrastructure. Work-sharingShoppers peer into a downtown draws storefront new on Sept. attention9 on Mason Street in Saugatuck.as a ‘win-win’ alternative to layoffs local economies. cedures for downtown businesses. The netSee of SAUGATUCKit: We aren’t 5.0 on page 7 MIBIZ PHOTO: KATE CARLSON printing right now, but we’re By ANDY BALASKOVITZ | MiBiz qualify for a percentage of unemployment benefits “In many ways, this is an ideal downturn to February 1 January 20 Cybersecurity CLQ: Small Business Lending Update still publishing. [email protected] based on their reduction in hours. use work sharing — we don’t think there’s a great PERIODICALS Thanks for your con- In the unique circumstances brought on by need for restructuring the economy,” Houseman tinued readership and or Michigan companies scaling back but not the coronavirus, in which businesses have been said. “In those circumstances, it’s really benefi- partnership. Farmers markets completely shutting down as the state tight- ordered to shut down for a certain time period, cial if possible to maintain those employment ens restrictions to stop the spread of the work sharing can be beneficial by keeping trained relationships.” Be well. prove crucial for coronavirus, a little-used program is draw- workers on staff without having to go through a Work sharing, or “short-time compensation,” food startupsFing new attention as an alternative to layoffs. new round of hiring. also allows employees to maintain health insurance Michigan’s voluntary Work Share program, over- “It’sINSIDE: potentially beneficial to both workers and benefits. Research has shown that fully severing the during pandemicseen by the Unemployment Insurance Agency, businesses when the downturn is expected to be employment tie increases the likelihood of “persis- Brian Edwards,PAGE Publisher 23 avoids layoffs by reducing hours across more employ- temporary,”Family said Susan Houseman, vice president tent adverse effects to their employment and earn- February 15 February 3 Work from Home M&A Deals and Dealmakers of the Year Awards [email protected] ees. Instead of some being fully unemployed while and director of research at the Kalamazoo-based ings for many years,” Houseman said. others maintain full employment, more workers W.E. BusinessUpjohn Institute for Employment Research. See WORK SHARING on page 10 SEE PAGE 17

West Michigan Coronavirus execs talk concerns INSIDE: leadership sideline West March 1 February 17 Education/Talent Development strategies Michigan Transition / amid sports teams Succession pandemic PAGE 14 PAGE 7 Planning March 15 March 3 Real Estate: Office SEE PAGE 16 March 29 March 17 Utilities & Energy M&A Roundtable MiBiz offers the region’s most comprehensive April 12 March 31 Drinking Economy Small Biz: Craft Beverage Roundtable reporting in key business areas, including: April 26 April 14 Culture and Generational Change Webinar: Navigating Cultural and Generational Change n Manufacturing May 10 April 28 Diversity/Equity/Inclusion CLQ: Commercial Real Estate Lending Update n Real Estate/Development n May 24 May 12 Food Systems Finance n Health Care June 7 May 26 Real Estate: Multifamily n Economic Development June 21 June 9 Transportation n Small Business n Nonprofits July 5 June 23 Industry 4.0: Automation n Higher Education July 19 July 7 West Michigan Tribal Economy Tribal Roundtable n Food/Agribusiness/Craft Beverages August 2 July 21 Insurance n Energy n Talent August 16 August 4 Automotive Supplier Outlook CLQ: Growth Lending Update n Technology August 30 August 18 Education/Talent Development n Retail September 13 September 1 Family Business Editorial Pitches: [email protected] 20 days September 27 September 15 Cannabis Cannabis Roundtable prior to issue date. October 11 September 29 Real Estate: Industrial Sales: (616) 608-6170 or [email protected] October 25 October 13 Cybersecurity November 8 October 27 Education/Talent Development November 22 November 10 CLQ: Commercial Lending Wrap-up December 6 November 24 Construction Wrap-up P.O. BOX 1629 GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49501 December 20 December 8 Crystal Ball P: 616.608.6170 / F: 616.608.6182 *Date moved due to holiday schedules. Revised 10-20-2020 [email protected] / [email protected] Contractors Minority biz brace for leaders face supply chain barriers to disruptions recovery PAGE 9 PAGE 16

APRIL 13, 2020 • VOL. 32/NO. 13 • $3.00 SERVING WESTERN MICHIGAN BUSINESS SINCE 1988 www.mibiz.com PREPARING PRINT: MIBIZ 2021 DISPLAY AD RATES FOR THE State, local SURGE Hospitals look to add officials seek beds, meet staffing challenge in COVID pandemic federal help as

By MARK SANCHEZ | MiBiz [email protected] COVID-19 budget n line in Bronson No. 33 Effective January 1, 2021 Methodist Hospital’s deficits loom A emergency state filing to temporarily add 300 beds epitomizes the main challenge Business owners discuss reacting, coping and By ANDY BALASKOVITZ | MiBiz for boosting capacity for an [email protected] expected surge in COVID-19 patients in the coming weeks. planning for the future in the era of coronavirus hrinking revenue from sales, income The Kalamazoo hospital’s and gasoline taxes could cost state ability to put the added beds and local governments billions into operation “will be depen- By JOE BOOMGAARD | MiBiz hospitals a fighting chance against the highly of dollars in the coming months, dent on staffing,” according Spotentially cutting already stretched services [email protected] contagious COVID-19. to a filing with the Michigan Once they got past the chaos in which the rules and leading to a prolonged recession without Department of Health and all it the six stages of COVID-19 cop- seemingly changed by the hour, they all needed sufficient federal support. Human Services. ing: Experiencing shock. Assessing. to take a step back, assess what their next steps State officials reported earlier this month As with every hospital dur2020- AthenaRecalibrating. Cash Flowing. Helping. would be and recalibrate their business strategy. that the fiscal year general fund‘Well-intentioned’ and school ing the COVID-19 pandemic, Imagining. In many cases, that strategy focused on figuring aid budgets ending on Bronson has been planningAward C winnerThat seems to sum up an emotional and intel- out how best to take care of employees in the Sept. 30 couldeviction see a $1 bil- moratoriums for a patient surge by simultaTasha- lectual path many West Michigan business own- short term while also addressing the company’s lion to $3 billionmay shortfall, cause homelessness neously looking at how to add ers have travelled recently as their companies viability in the long term as the crisis continues a result of the public health capacity and then staff thoseBlackmon faced extraordinary circumstances brought on to play out without a realistic end date in sight. measures takenbottleneck to prevent beds, if needed. PAGE 26 by the spread of coronavirus. To that end, business owners also thrust the spread ofPAGE the corona 25 - “In order to care for an Over the last two weeks, MiBiz spoke with themselves into applying for government relief virus. The higher range is increased number of patients, SEPTEMBERowners 14, and 2020 executives • VOL. in 32/NO.a variety 24 of •industries. $3.00 SERVINGprograms, WESTERNfinding novel MICHIGANways to generate BUSINESS reve- SINCE 1988 a decline of more than 10 www.mibiz.com Bronson plans to redeploy staff percent. Next fiscal year, No matter what sector they work in, they all nue, and — this being West Michigan — figuring Bartik members who are not cur- pretty much experienced the same rollercoaster out how they could use their platforms to help the deficit could be up to rently in clinical roles, but who of emotions. others in need. $4 billion. Yet those are just estimates at this are clinically First came the shock at how fast the virus was Here are six stories of local executives dealing point, and it’s difficult to predict the ultimate licensed. We spreading throughout the United States, then with the crisis, coping with the “new normal,” effect of the pandemic on the budget.Michigan’s have many panic when it became clear that all non-essen- and looking ahead to how their companies and “My own guess is it might be worse than RNs who tial businesses in Michigan would need to close society could change as a result of the pandemic. that,” said Tim Bartik, senior economist with work in edu- to help “flatten the curve” and give the state’s See BUSINESS OWNERS REACT on page 12 the Kalamazoo-based W.E. Upjohnsurprise Institute billing cation, qual- See STATE BUDGET on page 14 ity and safety, management legislation attracts Neely and other departments ROP DISPLAY ADVERTISING RATES who will return to a role of pro- VC, PE firms steer companies through crisisnational attention viding patient care,” Denise Neely, senior vice president for Bronson Healthcare and chief By MARK SANCHEZ | MiBiz revenues, assess the effects, and con- portfolio compa- visualize how we will steer out of this Ad Size Width Height operating officer and chief [email protected] tinually revise projections based on nies. We immediately fog,” Parker said. “Sometimes,By MARK itSANCHEZ is | MiBiz nursing officer for Bronson the data they see. shifted into crisis difficult for a small [email protected] in the

Methodist Hospital, said in a he COVID-19 pandemic that Investment firms say they continue management mode trenches to see the entire battlefield. legislative effort to curtail surprise statement to MiBiz. dismantled daily routines to scout for new deals, although some and began working We can provide that vision and bring medical billing in Michigan has “We are currently identify- and hammered the economy are generally doing so at a slower pace. each step of the pro- best practices, along with resources gained attention from national ROP advertising rates below are NET rates and represent price per insertion. Annual ing those staff members and will has forced investors to pivot Their immediate priority is to focus cess in parallel,” Tim to help them develop and implement health care organizations shift- refresh them on current processes Talong with the companies they back on portfolio companies in which they Parker, the president safe and smart strategies.” SIX MONTHSParker IN Aing their focus to states amid stalled efforts before they return to clinical care. financially. have already invested to help them of Grand Rapids- Grand Angels has angel investor Small businesses reflect on the ups, downs, optimism federally. We are also calling on retirees who Venture capital and private equity navigate the crisis, and in some cases based Grand Angels, groups in West Michigan and affili- One of those groups says the Michigan may be willing to return to the investors contacted by MiBiz say provide an injection of capital. wrote in an email to MiBiz. ates in Kalamazoo, Detroit and Flint. and bleakness of the COVID-19 pandemic. SEE PAGE 10. legislation moving toward final passage could workforce,” Neely said. they’ve advised portfolio companies “The crisis certainly caused a sud- “One aspect of our role is to help The investment firm closed in late even serve as an example for other states to See SURGE on page 17 to stay safe, preserve cash, control den change in the way we all work companies deal with the current reali- December on $11.7 million raised follow when considering surprise billing expenses and capital spending, secure and live. Its impact jolted us and our ties and at the same time help them See VC/PE on page 18 legislation. insertion discounts apply to any size ad in contract year. Qualifying ads may appear in Full Page 10.25" 12.25" BY ANDY BALASKOVITZ | MiBiz “We think that Michigan thus far is a model,” said James Gelfand, senior vice pres- PERIODICALS ident of health policy for the Washington, Remote working D.C.-based ERISA Industry Committee whose members include large employers puts broadband across the country. access in “The Michigan debate so far is heav- ily favoring patients,” Gelfand added. “One spotlight unique thing about the Michigan bills is that MiBiz, focus sections and supplements. it is very patient-centric and uses market PAGE 3 INSIDE: mechanisms, as opposed to being a giveaway to these hospitals and doctors.” Industry 4.0The ERISA Industry Committee recently submitted written testimony to a state Senate SEE PAGE 4 3/4 Page 10.25" 9.125" committee in strong support for surprise billing legislation that state lawmakers have worked on for a year and a half.

See SURPRISE BILLING on page 12 SAUGATUCK 5.0? 7.625" 12.25" COVID-19 drives business and civic leaders to turn the Saugatuck-Douglas lakeshore tourist spot into a year-round destination

By KATE CARLSON | MiBiz A group of community lead- Now the group is starting to look [email protected] ers from Saugatuck, Douglas and at larger, foundational issues sur- Fennville started meeting informally rounding the area’s short tourist SAUGATUCK — Business and civic through regular Zoom meetings in the season that could leave it vulner- leaders along the West Michigan early stages of the pandemic, referring able to future unexpected events. lakeshore realized in March that to themselves as “Saugatuck 5.0.” However, the group faces a series of ANNUAL FREQUENCY COVID-19-related shutdowns They tackled immediate needs obstacles to their goals, including could have a devastating effect on like setting up a small business lacking a key economic develop- the already short summer tourism COVID-19 loan and grant fund, ment agency and inadequate wire- Junior Page 7.625" 8.125" season that fuels the beach towns’ and forming consistent safety pro- less internet infrastructure. Shoppers peer into a downtown storefront on Sept. 9 on Mason Street in Saugatuck. local economies. cedures for downtown businesses. See SAUGATUCK 5.0 on page 7 MIBIZ PHOTO: KATE CARLSON

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MANUFACTURING SECTIONS AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP: TOP OF THE CYCLE Suppliers, economists express concern, some optimism about auto industry’s future

By MITCH GALLOWAY | MiBiz GAUGING GROWTH [email protected] The headwinds have industry experts mulling new ways to gauge the current condition of the ACME — After an extended period of growth, automotive sector. vehicle sales have started to cool at a time when It’s a tough proposition since the automotive n n n industry-wide uncertainty is hampering manu- industry “could all get thrown off by one trade LIMITED Real Estate/Development LIMITED Food/AgriBiz SOLD Nonprofit News facturers’ optimism. policy this way, another retaliatory one that way,” Some industry insiders think auto suppliers’ said Bernard Swiecki, director of the Automotive worries are overblown given the lessons they’ve Communities Partnership and senior automo- learned and the business adjustments they’ve tive analyst at CAR. made in the years since the Great Recession. Still, “We find ourselves on the top of the cycle, many executives cite concerns about interna- and it’s been a lovely cycle both in terms of vol- tional trade agreements, ume and in giving us a gift in terms of a very n n n President Trump’s steel and favorable mix of profitable vehicles for us to As sales in the automotive industry begin to plateau, suppliers will need to take action to reduce Energy Health Biz People/Datebook Spectrum Health All-woman VC LIMITED aluminum tariffs, technolog- sell as an industry,” Swiecki said during a pre- their risks with various OEMs, on certain platforms or by geopolitical exposure, analysts said. selects insider as seeks investors, ical disruptions, and the pla- sentation at MBS. “The automotive industry teauing sales environment as is extremely capital-intensive,FULL and we are also PAGEaluminum tariffs, and customers are paying next CEO prospects key headwinds. an industry that relies on long-term return on about $1,800 more for domestically built vehi- “The automotive industry PAGE 3 PAGE 20 “Given where we are investment. When you have an uncertain busi- cles, he said. is extremely capital- in the cycle, we’re keeping ness case that could change on you next week, “It’s a tremendous impact and a substantial intensive, and we are also n n n JULY 23, 2018 • VOL. 30/NO. 20 • $3.00 SERVING WESTERN MICHIGAN BUSINESS SINCE 1988 www.mibiz.com our eyes open for that next next month or next year, it’s hard to make these drag on our industry,” Robinet said of the duties. Economic Development Manufacturing Small Biz downturn,” said Mike Wall, decisions.” “We’re in the 17 (million unit range) now. To go an industry that relies LIMITED Wall director of automotive anal- Other economistsPRINT echo Swiecki’s sentiments. back down ADinto the 14s or the 13s, it’s a substan- on long-term return ysis at IHS Markit in Grand According to IHS Markit Managing Director tial change for a lot of us, and it’s not going to be BIZ GROUPS Rapids. Michael Robinet, light vehicle sales will dip to spread out like peanut butter over all of the dif- on investment. When Spectrum Health In talking to suppliers, 16.6 million units by 2020. By comparison, North ferent segments.” you have an uncertain OPPOSE Wall said he recommends American sales hit 17.2 million units last year. According to Robinet, the industry’s expan- they start “what-if” plan- As a result of the plateau in the sales fore- sion is slowing down to a pace three times less business case that n tackles largest ning for a downturn in which cast, suppliers must take a “proactive stance” to than its growth between 2009 and 2017. n Finance M&A / In The News could change on you LIMITED REDISTRICTING industry sales slip to 14 mil- reduce risks, Robinet said. However, he said suppliers still have reason lion or 15 million units. Auto “It’s been a very interesting couple of quar- to be optimistic about the future, as the average next week, next month PROPOSAL acquisition yet suppliers should be think- ters,” Robinet said at MBS. “The markets pla- age of vehicles — which is approaching 12 years or next year, it’s hard to Initiative would establish Juerss ing about their customer teaued, we are in a conquesting environment, old — “means a strong replacement cycle” should make these decisions.” bipartisan commission to set mix, what segments they’re especially if I am speaking to the supplier audi- come in the near future. districts, voting advocates say with Lakeland dealon, and how they’re exposed from a geopolitical ence, and the costs in economics are going to “The industry is slowing down. You can feel standpoint, he said. become more and more important.” it, and you have already seen it in North America — BERNARD SWIECKI Partnership necessary to “I guarantee you the automakers are doing Robinet also remains concerned about the to an extent. But even still, growing at a 2 percent Senior automotive analyst at CAR By ANDY BALASKOVITZ | MiBiz mitigate risk in current healththat — they’re gaming that out,” Wall said. auto price index, which is up almost 3 percent compound annual growth pace is still a strong [email protected] care environment, execs say Wall told MiBiz that he doesn’t think West from 2017. Add in the effects of the steel and growth base going forward,” Robinet said. Michigan auto suppliers are making any “rash ajor Michigan busi- decisions,” but instead are “keeping their powder ness groups say a state- By MARK SANCHEZ | MiBiz dry and seeing where this is all going,” particularly wide ballot initiative to [email protected] because they lack long-term market visibility. change the way legisla- “But then when we do get some sense, if Mtive districts are drawn is flawed and ST. JOSEPH — Knowing the business wouldn’tyou’ve got an action plan at least thought out unnecessary, but supporters believe get any easier, directors at Lakeland Healthand gamed out to then build upon, I think you’ll the plan would help achieve shared decided the best route into the future wasbe better to for it,” he said. This type of premium business-to-business marketing allows you to connect with the MiBiz audience segment that matters most policy goals and restore public faith Jack Endres, vice president of operations DIGITAL: 2019 pursue a deal with another health system. in politics. A RIVER RUNS The search narrowed earlier this yearat Portage-based to Mann + Hummel USA Inc., On July 18, the state Supreme Court what President and CEO Loren Hamel seesremains as optimistic about his company’s future, VIEW IN BROWSER / JOIN OUR MAILING LIST heard oral arguments on Voters Not a “fairly easy partner” in Spectrum Healthdespite, a steel and aluminum tariffs that have Politicians’ initiative to create a bipar- THROUGH IT large health system that ranks highly forforced clini- the company to swallow unexpected addi- tisan redistricting commission with cal quality. As well, Lakeland had been doingtional costs. the goal of stopping “gerrymandered” Numerous public and private entities have turned their focus to restoring the Grand business with Spectrum Health for years“We’re still growing,” Endres told MiBiz ear- to you and lets you participate in the organic energy around our business coverage, including news stories, analysis, features, state and congressional voting dis- River through downtown Grand Rapids. While the new efforts remain in the early through clinical partnerships. lier this month at the Center for Automotive tricts. The group Citizens Protecting stages, they have the potential to redefine how West Michigan’s largest city interacts Those ties eventually led the two healthResearch (CAR) Management Briefing Seminars. Michigan’s Constitution — with with its riverfront. In this multi-part report by reporter Nick Manes, MiBiz examines systems to discuss a possible deal, which“We have opportunity to continue to grow. So the financial and legal backing from the E-NEWS what the restoration process could mean for future investment, past and current culminated this month when they signedoutlook a is very favorable. What we don’t know is Michigan Chamber of Commerce projects, and a case study of how one Great Lakes city used its riverfront to concentrate non-binding letter of intent. The two whatorga- the impact is on the growth of the economy — is challenging the proposal, alleg- redevelopment. PHOTO: EXPERIENCE GR nizations will work toward a final agreementbased on the inflation driven by this. We have no LEADERBOARD ing it is a broad rewrite of the state by October in which Spectrum Healthidea will what that’s going to look like.” columns and more. Constitution and thus requires a con- E-NEWS RATESacquire the St. Joseph-based Lakeland Health,At seating supplier Adient plc, executives stitutional convention to enact. IN THIS ISSUE: which operates three hospitals in Southwestthink it would be unwise for supply chain man- While the state Chamber and Grand Michigan. ufacturers to change their production strategies Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce A deal with Spectrum Health was “thebecause most of the recent tariffs. officials say they take constitutional Redevelopment boom expected as part of Grand River restoration PAGE 13 prudent strategy” for Lakeland, Hamel said.“We’re more observing the longer-term trends amendments seriously, it is unclear how Investments flow to downtown GR’s riverfront PAGE 15 “This puts new tools in the tool caseon forwhere we see the markets,” said Detlef Juerss, the groups’ members would be directly Lakeland. It gives us new opportunitiesvice to re- president of engineering and the chief tech- affected by a change in the way districts Projects take shape along Grand River PAGE 16 engineer that value of the care that wenology pro- officer for Plymouth-based Adient, which are drawn, especially when compared MiBiz publishes specializedCase study: Milwaukeee-newsletters riverfront benefits from public-private that partnerships reach PAGE 17morevide,” he said. has plants in Battle Creek and Holland. “We have to issues like raising the minimum wage See SPECTRUM/LAKELAND on pagethe manufacturing9 footprint globally … so we or mandatory paid sick leave. can be very flexible.” Andy Johnston, vice president of Monday Morning MiBiz than 27,000government andreaders corporate affairs each week with content that hits Visit www.mibiz.com MiBiz / AUGUST 20, 2018 5 with the Grand Rapids Chamber, said Tariffs not likely to influence production decisions MiBiz Section Sponsors receive the following: the group opposes the initiative for a January 1, 2019 in short term, manufacturing execs say their specific“whole variety of reasons,” area including of STAYINGbusiness interest. PUT: Each newsletter its overly broad language. He added By MITCH GALLOWAY | MiBiz it was closely monitoring how the tariffs played the quotes from CFO Jeff Stutz included in the that the current system in which the [email protected] out globally in deciding how to react. report were “taken out of context in response party in power determines districts “has “While stable overall, there are still pockets of to theoretical questions of the escalating trade highlightsworked local well,” despite research news showing and data, as well as best practices, ADVERTISEMENT ew tariffs and an escalating global trade political uncertainty, and we continue watching war.” Michigan likely has gerrymandered dis- war in recent weeks have stoked fears the recent U.S. actions related to tariffs and the “One of the core tenets of Herman Miller’s tricts favoring Republicans. that global manufacturers will move responses from other nations,” President and CEO manufacturing strategy is to produce goods as “When it comes to how we elect our events and resources. production outside of the United States Brian Walker said during a quarterly conference close to the end customer as possible,” Stutz said representation and decisions they make Nto protect their margins. call earlier this month to discuss the company’s in a statement to MiBiz. “Keeping this in mind, about the business climate, that has a big Those fears were fanned in part as compa- financial performance. “As a result, we’ve proac- we are continually developing and refining busi- impact,” Johnston said. “As an advocacy nies like Milwaukee-based Harley-Davidson Inc. tively developed and continue to refine contin- ness contingency plans to best utilize our global group representing the business com- announced plans to shift some of its motorcycle gency plans.” supply base and manufacturing resources. This munity, we have a stake when a group manufacturing outside of the U.S. to avoid stiff According to a report in Bloomberg, those includes planning around sourcing decisions that wants to amend the Constitution.” PRINT retaliatory tariffs imposed by the European Union. plans include shifting production overseas if tar- could be made in response to escalating global See REDISTRICTING on page 3 Locally, Zeeland-based office furniture manu- iffs become too onerous to keep manufacturing trade tensions. facturer Herman Miller Inc. (Nasdaq: MLHR) said in the U.S. However, a spokesperson told MiBiz See TARIFFS on page 7 • Full-page ad in each print edition on section page or adjacent 2019PERIODICALS LINEUP • Front cover ad once every six months during campaign n Monday Morning – A weekly roundupCOVER of business PRINT news AD and intelligence. n The Friday Ticker – Recapping the week and looking ahead. WEB n Small Biz – A bi-weekly compendium of news, best practices and events. 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MIBIZ MORNING EDITION SPECIALTY E-NEWSLETTERS Start your day with our daily enewsletter, highlighting NEW! MICHIGAN ENERGY DIGEST – A weekly the latest Michigan business news. Published digest of energy news from around the state. An editorial Monday through Friday. partnership with Energy News Network. Ads run 5 days per week. REAL ESTATE/DEVELOPMENT REPORT - Staying Charged: Advocates look to keep a weekly wrap up of the region’s commercial real estate, electric vehicle momentum going into 2019 n E-news Leaderboard development and economic development activity. Planning for a more electrified transportation future Exclusive: Max one advertiser per e-newsletter gained steam in Michigan this year with multiple 500px width x 100px height MANUFACTURING REPORT – A bi-weekly digest of local, spending plans totaling $85 million, as well as a series state and national manufacturing news. of in-depth policy discussions among… $1,300 / week READ MORE SMALL BIZ – A bi-weekly compendium of news, best n Large Rectangle practices and events for small business owners. 300px width x 250px height $900 / week WEST MICHIGAN NONPROFITS REPORT – A monthly LARGE LARGE roundup of news and information affecting the nonprofit sector. RECTANGLE RECTANGLE n Small Rectangle 300px width x 100px height Ad runs once per e-newsletter. $600 / week n E-news Leaderboard PE firm acquires Southeast Michigan n E-news Anchor Exclusive: Max one advertiser per e-newsletter stamping manufacturer Exclusive: Max one advertiser per e-newsletter 500px width x 100px height Private equity firm Auxo Investment Partners has $325 / issue completed its fifth acquisition in 13 months with a deal 500px width x 100px height for a Warren- based stamping manufacturer. $800 / week n Large Rectangle READ MORE 300px width x 250px height SMALL SMALL $225 / issue RECTANGLE RECTANGLE n Small Rectangle Amid ‘green rush,’ Grand Rapids presses pause on medical 300px width x 100px height marijuana licenses

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Meijer planning more smaller format urban stores GRAND RAPIDS — Meijer Inc.’s VIEW IN BROWSER / FORWARD TO COLLEAGUE / JOIN OUR MAILING LIST 39,000-square-foot Bridge Street Market being built west of downtown will serve as a “proof of concept” for the company’s planned expansion Monday Morning MiBiz of smaller format urban grocery stores. Monday, October 15, 2018

TRENDING NEWS Construction could start on Grand River Johnson Controls considers sales of restoration next year automotive battery division GRAND RAPIDS — The Grand River helped to make Grand Rapids “Furniture City” more Virginia REIT acquires Van Buren than a century ago, and now County blueberry farm many believe that Michigan’s longest river will soon revert Consumers Energy plans $20 million from a largely passive asset West Michigan's Blue Economy: A Special Report from MiBiz regional HQ on GR’s west side back to an active one. Water is the lifeblood for West Michigan communities. In this special report, MiBiz examines how the local economy is shaped by its access to water and Imperial Beverage acquires U.P.- based beer distributor business wilderness, both of which are becoming increasingly important for the re- Gubernatorial gion’s quality of life — and talent attraction. Muskegon kayak maker to hire 70 candidates employees differ on strategy State extends Construction could MORE LANSING — The crowded GROW Michigan start on Grand River field of candidates seeking to become Michigan’s next funding restoration next year governor offer distinctly After a major customer GRAND RAPIDS –– The Grand different views for how they moved a supply contract River helped to make Grand Rapids would shape the state’s A focusto a Chinese on servingcompany, a Muskegon- others serves“Furniture Waterbury City” more than a well economic development policy. area manufacturer needed capital century ago, and now many believe duringto retool four-decade for the new business legal careerthat Michigan’s longest river will coming in to replace what it had soon revert from a largely passive Friends lost.and family saw Stephen Waterbury heading assettoward back a career to an inactive law beforeone. he ever did. After graduating with an undergraduate degree from Michigan State University, he applied and earned acceptance to Harvard Law School. A Lansing native, he later joined Warner Norcross + Judd LLP in Grand Rapids, where he’s practiced business law for nearly 39 years. During his Organizations support GR drug developer to test career, he has handled the legal work for hundreds of mergers and acquisitions domestically minority entrepreneurial compound as treatment and globally, and served as a mentor to the firm’s young associate attorneys at the dawn of their initiatives in West for genetic form of autism careers. Michigan GRAND RAPIDS — Drug developer READ MOREGRAND RAPIDS –– An array of Tetra Discovery Partners Inc. plans Michigan’s gain? organizations in West Michigan to launch a clinical trial later this State more resilient have launched new initiatives aimed spring on a potential treatment for at bridging the wealth gap in a an autism spectrum disorder. to NAFTA withdrawal region characterized by vast income than expected disparities. SPONSORED CONTENT WEEK #2-3 FROM OUR ADVERTISERS SPONSORED CONTENT FEATURED IN SIDEBAR WEEK #1 WEBSITE SPONSORED CONTENT FEATURED HERE Security on a Shoestring - EXCLUSIVE:From Automotive Parts to MSU Masters Profile: ROS cost-free ways to prevent PE firmOffice Auxo Furniture, acquires Your SE CareerMichigan Mark stamping Thompson, manufacturer MS in cybercrime Matters Management, Strategy BANNER Private equity firm Auxo Investment Partners has completed its fifth acquisition in 13 months BY MERIT NETWORK BY CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY BY BISK EDUCATION FOR 5 WEEKS with a deal for a Warren- based stamping manufacturer. CAMPAIGN READ MORE

Amid ‘green rush,’ Grand Rapids presses pause on medical marijuana licenses

SECTIONS Initiative asks business owners to consider preserving local ownership when looking to exit NEW, EXPANDED BENEFITS FOR 2021! REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT HEALTH BIZ FINANCE Density at what cost? Fifth Third seeks Zoning proposals spark Commercial-scale malting facility aopportunities ‘game-changer’ for state’s tensions between Grand craft bev supply chain in consolidating Rapids policymakers, insurance market neighborhoods GRAND RAPIDS — As GRAND RAPIDS — Proposals to consolidation among independent upzone several Grand Rapids neigh- insurance brokers accelerates across the country, Fifth Third Bancorp Inc. borhoods in an attempt to address SPONSORED CONTENT housing issues have exposed deep Saint Mary’s Foundation is pushing deeper into the industry through acquisitions. divisions among local stakeholders. gears up for majorWEEKS #4-5It’s time to build a stronger The package includes: fundraising initiative Michigan 8-WEEK PACKAGE: $2,750 CONTENT FEATUREDDo you want more IN opportunities, better jobs and higher incomes? If so, it’s time to raise your hand in support of the Plan for a MIBIZ E-NEWSLETTERSStronger Michigan. FOOD BIZ MANUFACTURING SMALL BIZ/SECOND STAGE BY BUSINESS LEADERS FOR MICHIGAN ■ Week #1 Content featured on MiBiz.com Tariffs could threaten West Michigan musical Michigan’s $2.7 billion ag instrument makers find a Sponsored content offers you the best opportunity exports, industry experts niche homepage sponsored content area, located warn Black Swamp Percussion LLC started Michigan’s farmers and food proces- out like many musical instrument to educate and engage MiBiz readers about your sors are closely watching how talksFrey Foundationmanufacturers tendseeks to, by housing “rolling solutions beneath the Top 10 stories section of trade wars and retaliatory tariffswith $150Kout of hobby grant mode into a little bit of could affect the nearly $2.7 billion in a business.” company, its products and your ability to solve their exports they send to other countries.With a proposed grant of up to $150,000, the Frey FoundationSmall business owners ■ Weeks #2-3 Content featured on website sidebar joins a growing list of organizations looking to spurshould creative plan ahead to housing solutions around West Michigan. READ MORE problems. ADVERTISEMENTmaximize sale value ■ Week #4 Content featured once in Morning FROMPREPARING OUR ADVERTISERS FOR THE FUTURE Your content will be integrated with our news content Edition e-newsletter As Industry 4.0 takes hold, manufacturers struggle with where to begin

By MiBiz Marketing Staff what this is and how to implement it to our man- what The Right Place is doing through the Manu- and displayed in highly visible locations in our print, ■ Week #5 Content featured once in Small Biz, ufacturers. If you’re running a company day-to-day, facturing Leadership Summit is so invaluable be- ick up a manufacturing-oriented trade pub- you may not catch up on this. We want to bring cause it’s hyper local, it’s a day of time, and it gives lication these days, and you’ll probably enAdvisers- this to the forefront tell so clientsthat our companies to canaccelerate be you a broad cross transaction section of making your timelines factory to take P counter a deluge of material on the latest prepared for what’s next.” smart all the way to developing and implement- web, enews and social media products. That means For Peter Hungerford, chief operating officer ing a connected products strategy.” Manufacturing, Energy or Real Estate/Development 3D printers, collaborative robots or new industrialadvantage of strong valuations technology that falls under the wide umbrella of of ADAC Automotive, Industry 4.0 also rep- As technology continues to advance, there is Industry 4.0. resents an extension of the lean manufacturing little to suggest the push toward Industry 4.0 will WEBINAR:For many, Industry The 4.0 Automationrepresents a powerMichigan- philosophyIt’s that timetradepromises to to groups drivebuild out wastea strongerform in fade newaway, experts associationHiring say. To the contrary,IT and manyhealth Security be- plan for small your story will be seen by people actively consuming the manufacturing process. The automotive manu- lieve that the improvements to productivity, con- e-newsletter (choose one) ful force that could take productivity, quality and Michigan Professionals – What Really Landscapeprofits to another A level.Real-World Collaborative robotics,businesses facturer integrated a variety of Industry 4.0-relat- nectivity, safety and other key metrics afforded by Approachbig data and analysis, spatial awareness and arti- ed technologyBY BUSINESS including collaborative LEADERS robotics, FOR 3D Industry 4.0 will makeMatters? the technology a staple of ficial intelligence all have the promise of greatly printing and additive manufacturing into its own the manufacturing sector for years to come. MICHIGAN our news content and open to learning about your BYimproving MMTC productivity WEST & and MIBIZ safety on the plantGrand operations. Rapids Hungerford believes to explore this new technol -converting“The rate of changeBY downtown MERIT is inevitable,” NETWORK said Andyone-way streets to ■ Weeks #4-8 300px by 250px Large Rectangle floor, which many believe will usher in a new era ogy will increase productivity and safety and free1/2 Storm, presidentPAGE and CEO of Eckhard, a Lan- of manufacturing. up its employees to more effectively engage in and sing-based automation manufacturer and engi- Yet for many manufacturers, knowing wheretwo-way improve the business. traffic neering firm. “It’s not going to go away. If an or- products and services. to begin or who to talk to about the technology “Industry 4.0 defines 4-COLORthe future ecosystem ganization ADVERTORIAL wants to truly survive and thrive in the can seem like a daunting proposition. that we will all live in and really is the underlying future, then it is extremely important that they ROS banner ad featured in website sidebar, stories Clearing up that path to incorporating IndusPerrigo- enabler for namesthe future sustained new growthPUBLISHED CEO of our amid need to shifttake the initiativeIN to consumer-focused TWOto learn about the tech- strategy try 4.0 technology is one of the main goals of organization,” Hungerford said. “We believe that nology, how the technology applies to them and the upcoming Manufacturing Leadership Summit Industry 4.0 will really define and establish how embrace it.” hosted by The Right Place, The Michigan Man- any system will ultimatelyCONSECUTIVE drive and sustain itself In the PRINT future, industry insiders EDITIONS expect that In- ■ ufacturing Technology Center - West and The over the long term.” dustry 4.0 technology will be fully integrated by Plus, we’ll work with you to create highly sought-after Weeks #1-8 14 social media posts including Right Place and MMTC-West Manufacturers Stakeholders hope the Manufacturing Leader- OEMs and large suppliers and required in some Council. The event, which will take place October ship Summit will provide a springboard for manu- capacity throughout the supply chain. Beginning facturers of all sizes to begin what many consider now will help companies begin their journey to- 30 in Grand Rapids, features 21 local and national SPONSORED CONTENT ECONOMICspeakers covering DEVELOPMENT a breadth of Industry 4.0 topics. a “journey”NONPROFITS toward full adoption of Industry 4.0 ward Industry 4.0. DESIGN+BUILDFor Klohs and The Right Place, content (e.g., case studies, white papers, research, boosted posts OrganizationsThe conversations will range support from high-level over- technology. Moreover, the event can also act as the ManufacturingA Leadership winning Summit providesstrategy an from Old views of the technology to deeper dives into the a catalyst for like-minded manufacturers to meet entry point to prepare manufacturers for the up- minorityimplementation process.entrepreneurial For The Right Place, the and begin to share best practices and tips on im- coming technologicalNational shifts in the industryBank under The technology and innovation behind Industry 4.0 is changing the plementing Industry 4.0 in their own organizations. Industry 4.0. Date: October 30, 2018 event serves as part of the organization’s ongoing The right people. With the right products.future of manufacturing. Is your company ready to embrace the initiativescommitment to thought in Westleadership in the manu- “The technology has such a breadth to it, that “We want to help companies get ahead of the digitalTime: transformation? 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Join West Michigan’s manufacturing leaders how-to articles, trend stories) that will be distributed ■ At the right time. Brybelly Holdingsas they Inc., discuss upcoming trends and the latest industry advancements. Half-page print advertorial to run in two facturing sector. it’s hard to even go out and understand which curve so that when the OEMs start demanding it Michigan“Industry 4.0, in our opinion, is the next iter- consultant should I talk to to start on this jour- or the big Tier 1’san are e-commerce demanding it, (they’re) and product not developmentLocation: Amway Grand Plaza, Grand Rapids, Michigan GRAND RAPIDS –– An array of ney,” Shawn Crowley, a vice president of Atomic caught by surprisecompany because eventually founded it willin 2004,start had that winning ation of lean (manufacturing),” said Birgit Klohs, Registration: https://www.mfgleadershipsummit.com organizationspresident and CEO in of West The Right Michigan Place. “We feel Object and managing partner of the software meandering its waycombination throughout the right entire from supply the start. via our news channels. We’ll also promote your firm’s Grand Rapids office. “That’s why I think chain,” Klohs said. consecutive issues of MiBiz’s print edition very strongly that we need to bring knowledge on have launched new initiatives aimed BY OLD NATIONAL BANK at bridging the wealth gap in a Learn more and register at: region characterized by vast income Gun violence puts Spate of store closures content in the MiBiz print edition and provide you disparities. spotlight on underfunded spurs debt worries for mental health orgs retail property owners. a smartly designed PDF of your content to share on SUBSCRIBE TODAY If you no longer wish to receive this e-newsletter, unsubscribe here. your own website and social sites — or to use as a HIGHER EDUCATION CRAFT BEER & SPIRITS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Workforce development Illinois craft COURTESY OF REVUE WEST MICHIGAN printed marketing piece. initiatives show signs of © 2018 MiBiz.distiller | Contact dismisses Us | Privacy | Terms of Service progress trademark case By focusing on an internal culture against Gray Skies that favors employee retention and support for external training Distillery initiatives, some West Michigan GRAND RAPIDS — Two craft executives say they’ve largely distilleries have agreed to a avoided any problems associated negotiated settlement inSOCIAL a trademark MEDIA with labor shortages. dispute stemming from a November lawsuit. 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Rapids “Furniture City” more County blueberry farm Water is the lifeblood for West Michigan communities. In this special report, than a century ago, and now many believe that Michigan’s longest Imperial Beverage acquires U.P.- river will soon revert from a Consumers Energy plans $20 million MiBiz examines how the local economy is shaped by its access to water and regional HQ on GR’s west side largely passive asset back to an West Michigan's Blue Economy: A Special Report from MiBiz based beer distributor business active one. Water is the lifeblood for West Michigan communities. In this special report, RGB Color Mode wilderness, both of which are becoming increasingly important for the re- MiBiz examines how the local economy is shaped by its access to water and Imperial Beverage acquires U.P.- wilderness, both of which are becoming increasingly important for the re- based beer distributor business gion’s quality of life — and talent attraction. gion’s quality of life — and talent attraction. Gubernatorial Muskegon kayak maker to hire 70 MOBILE: HOME PAGE candidates employees Gubernatorial Muskegon kayak maker to hire 70 differ on State extends Construction could start strategy employees GROW Michigan on Grand River restoration candidates LANSING — The crowded field of candidates seeking to become funding next year Michigan’s next governor offer After a major customer GRAND RAPIDS – The Grand River distinctly different views for how moved a supply contract helped to make Grand Rapids “Furni- differ on to a Chinese company, a Muskeg- ture City” more than a century ago, and they would shape the state’s eco- State extends Construction could start nomic development policy. on-area manufacturer needed capital now many believe that Michigan’s lon- SIGN-IN: to retool for the new business coming gest river will soon revert from a largely strategy HAMBURGER NAVIGATION: in to replace what it had lost. passive asset back to an active one. 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This will also turn off interstitial Water is the lifebloodMOBILE for West Michigan communities. In ads and subscriber promos. this special report, MiBiz examines how the local economy is shaped by its access to water and wilderness, both of which are becoming increasingly important for the region’s INTERSTITIALquality of life — and talent attraction. Security on a Shoestring - From Automotive Parts to MSU Masters Profile: cost-free ways to prevent Office Furniture, Your Career Mark Thompson, MS in Organizations support GR drug developer to test BREAKING NEWS cybercrime Matters Management, Strategy ARTICLE ORDER: BY MERIT NETWORK BY CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY BY BISK EDUCATION Meijer planning more smaller format urban NOTE: The only art will be the lead photo stores minority entrepreneurial compound as treatmentfrom the homefor page. The remaining GRAND RAPIDS — Meijer Inc.’s 39,000-square-foot Bridge articles will feature only headlines and Street Market being built west of downtown will serve as a blurbs. “proof of concept” for the company’s planned expansion of initiatives in West genetic form of autism smaller format urban grocery stores. GRAND RAPIDS — Drug developer• Four Breaking News articles Michigan • Section articles Construction could start on Grand River [email protected] • (616) 608-6170 SECTIONS Tetra Discovery Partners Inc. plans to restoration next year GRAND RAPIDS – An array of organiza- GRAND RAPIDS —– The Grand River helped to make Grand REAL ESTATE/DEVELOPMENT HEALTH BIZ FINANCE Rapids “Furniture City” more than a century ago, and now Density at what cost? Fifth Third seeks tions in West Michigan have launched launch a clinical trial later this spring many believe that Michigan’s longest river will soon revert Michigan’s gain? from a largely passive asset back to an active one. Zoning proposals spark opportunities in on a potential treatment for an autism tensions between Grand consolidating PO Box 1629 • Grand Rapids, MI 49501 State more resilient to new initiatives aimed at bridging the Rapids policymakers, insurance market GRAND RAPIDS — As con- Gubernatorial candidates differ on strategy neighborhoods spectrum disorder. solidation among independent insurance wealth gap in a region characterized by LANSING — The crowded field of candidates seeking to GRAND RAPIDS — Proposals to upzone brokers accelerates across the country, become Michigan’s next governor offer distinctly different several Grand Rapids neighborhoods in NAFTA withdrawal than Fifth Third Bancorp Inc. is pushing views for how they would shape the state’s economic an attempt to address housing issues Saint Mary’s Foundation deeper into the industry through acqui- vast income disparities. development policy. have exposed deep divisions among local www.mibiz.com POPULAR PACKAGE! stakeholders. gears up for major sitions. expected fundraising initiative Michigan’s gain? State more resilient to NAFTA withdrawal than expected ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Michigan’s manufacturing industry could stand to gain jobs FOOD/AGRIBUSINESS MANUFACTURING Organizations support if the U.S. were to withdraw from the North American Free Tariffs could threaten West Michigan musical minority entrepreneurial Trade Agreement, according to an analysis from economists at Michigan’s $2.7 billion ag instrument makers find a the University of Michigan. initiatives in West Michigan exports, industry experts niche Spots are going fast. Book your ad today. GRAND RAPIDS –– An array of organi- Black Swamp Percussion LLC started out FROM OUR ADVERTISERS warn zations in West Michigan have launched MORE like many musical instrument manufac- Michigan’s farmers and food processors new initiatives aimed at bridging the turers tend to, by “rolling out of hobby are closely watching how talks of trade wealth gap in a region characterized by wars and retaliatory tariffs could affect mode into a little bit of a business.” ADVERTISEMENT vast income disparities. the nearly $2.7 billion in exports they send to otherHOME countries. 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Small business owners GRAND RAPIDS — Proposals to upzone several Grand Rapids on underfundedbar link mental at the bottom, similar should plan ahead to cost-free ways to prevent Office Furniture, Your Career Mark Thompson, MS in neighborhoods in an attempt to address housing issues have health orgs maximize tax rebates exposed deep divisions among local stakeholders. to the Breaking News section. cybercrime Matters Management, Strategy FINANCE BY CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY BY BISK EDUCATION Fifth Third seeks opportunities in SECTIONS ADVERTISING EVENTS ABOUT US SUBSCRIBE BY MERIT NETWORK consolidating insurance market Breaking News Reader Demographics M+A | Deals & Dealmaker Awards Contact Us Print & Digital Subscription Rates GRAND RAPIDS — As consolidation among independent Manufacturing Editorial Calendar Best-Managed Nonprofits Awards Locations Free E-newsletters insurance brokers accelerates across the country, Fifth Third Health Care Digital Ad Opportunities Staff Directory Subscription Questions Bancorp Inc. is pushing deeper into the industry through Finance Digital & Print Specifications Newsstands acquisitions. 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REAL ESTATE/DEVELOPMENT HEALTH BIZ FINANCE MANUFACTURING Density at what cost? Fifth Third seeks West Michigan musical instrument makers find a niche Black Swamp Percussion LLC started out like many musical Zoning proposals spark opportunities in instrument manufacturers tend to, by “rolling out of hobby mode into a little bit of a business.” tensions between Grand consolidating ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Rapids policymakers, insurance market Organizations support minority entrepreneurial initiatives in West Michigan GRAND RAPIDS –– An array of organizations in West Michigan neighborhoods GRAND RAPIDS — As con- have launched new initiatives aimed at bridging the wealth gap in a region characterized by vast income disparities. GRAND RAPIDS — Proposals to upzone solidation among independent insurance HIGHER EDUCATION several Grand Rapids neighborhoods in brokers accelerates across the country, Workforce development initiatives show signs of progress an attempt to address housing issues Fifth Third Bancorp Inc. is pushing By focusing on an internal culture that favors employee retention and support for external training initiatives, some Saint Mary’s Foundation deeper into the industry through acqui- West Michigan executives say they’ve largely avoided any have exposed deep divisions among local problems associated with labor shortages. stakeholders. gears up for major sitions. ADVERTISEMENT fundraising initiative

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOOD/AGRIBUSINESS MANUFACTURING Organizations support It’s time to build a stronger Michigan Tariffs could threaten West Michigan musical BY BUSINESS LEADERS FOR MICHIGAN minority entrepreneurial Michigan’s $2.7 billion ag instrument makers find a DESIGN+BUILD Construction could start on Grand River initiatives in West Michigan restoration next year exports, industry experts niche GRAND RAPIDS — The Grand River helped to make Grand GRAND RAPIDS –– An array of organi- Rapids “Furniture City” more than a century ago, and now Black Swamp Percussion LLC started out many believe that Michigan’s longest river … warn zations in West Michigan have launched like many musical instrument manufac- HEALTH BIZ Michigan’s farmers and food processors new initiatives aimed at bridging the GR drug developer to test compound as treatment for genetic form of autism are closely watching how talks of trade turers tend to, by “rolling out of hobby GRAND RAPIDS — Drug developer Tetra Discovery Partners wealth gap in a region characterized by Inc. plans to launch a clinical trial later this spring on a mode into a little bit of a business.” potential treatment for an autism spectrum disorder. wars and retaliatory tariffs could affect vast income disparities. CRAFT BEER & SPIRITS the nearly $2.7 billion in exports they Illinois craft distiller dismisses trademark case against Gray Skies Distillery send to other countries. GRAND RAPIDS — Two craft distilleries have agreed to a negotiated settlement in a trademark dispute stemming from a November lawsuit.

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