Lansing Sun

The Bertrand Township facility of a manufacturer of precision components is in the process of expanding its operations.

The announcement that C&S Machine Products is increasing its manufacturing footprint was made by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) on Aug. 5, according to Michigan.gov.

“C&S Machine’s continued investment in Bertrand Township is proof that companies can recruit a workforce to Berrien County with a high level of technical expertise,” Cornerstone Alliance Director of Business Development Cathy Tilley told Michigan.gov. “One of Cornerstone Alliance's key goals is to retain and expand existing local businesses. We are thrilled that C&S Machines is expanding both their footprint and talent here in Southwest Michigan and congratulate them on their ongoing success.”

The $34.5 million expansion of the facility has the backing of the Michigan Strategic Fund and is expected to facilitate 85 well-paying jobs.

“This investment by C&S Machine Products, which will create 85 good-paying manufacturing jobs in Berrien County, underscores the strength of our talented manufacturing workforce and the attractiveness of our business climate,” Whitmer said, according to Michigan.gov. “Together, we will continue growing Michigan’s economy and investing in our hardworking people and innovative businesses so they can thrive. Right now, Michigan’s economy is growing.”

Whitmer added that the state would provide a $750,000 grant towards the expansion of the facility.

“There is great excitement in our community about the upcoming C&S expansion," said Greater Niles Chamber President and CEO Jeff Rea. "C&S is a locally born and grown company that has been a fixture in our community for the past 56 years. During that time, they have distinguished themselves as one of the top employers in Southwest Michigan. This new investment sends a strong statement about their confidence in our region and the quality workforce that has helped them lead the way in the industries they work in. Projects like this don’t happen without a lot of great partners, and we’re grateful to the MEDC, the Cornerstone Alliance, Bertrand Township and everyone who helped advance this important project for our area.” 

C&S Machine Products was established in Buchanan in 1966 and moved to Bertrand Township in 2016. A major facet of its manufacturing involves aerospace components, and it currently has 106 staff on-site.

The expansion of its facility will allow C&S to develop new buildings for additional machines so the company can delve further into manufacturing for components related to metal processing, hydraulic testing capabilities and medical devices.