Fortech expands production and research facilities in Michigan

Fortech Products, Inc., a provider of corrosion-resistant coatings, metal-forming lubricants and contract packaging services for the auto industry, is expanding its production, laboratory and office facilities in Michigan.

The company recently moved into a new 80,000-square-foot headquarters on a 27-acre tract in Brighton, Mich., nearly tripling its production capacity, adding 25 percent more warehouse space, increasing product storage capacity by 75,000 gallons and further expanding its full-service research and development laboratories.

The new facilities are designed to meet growing customer demand for the company’s products and services.

“Fortech sales have grown by more than 25 percent in the last 12 months alone,” said Creighton Forester, Fortech’s CEO and president. “In the months ahead, we also expect to see significant increases in our sales of corrosion-resistant coatings and the lubricants we package for the aftermarket.”

Fortech has invested more than $3.2 million to equip its new Brighton facilities and has plans for an 8,000-square-foot addition. Previously located in Whitmore Lake, Fortech’s new headquarters complex currently employs 45 people.

Founded by Forester in 1994, the company has grown steadily through acquisitions and new product development. The company acquired U.S. Petrotech in 1997, LG Formulation in 1998 and Argus Coating in 1999.

“We’re currently pursuing growth opportunities in the Americas and elsewhere around the world as well,” Forester said. “As our customers expand their operations, we want to be ready to support them wherever those expansions take place.”

Fortech develops and manufactures corrosion-resistant water-based paints and coatings for the automotive, recreational-vehicle and allied industries. The company also works with a variety of customers to formulate and package aftermarket lubricants and additives.

Key OEM and supplier partners for Fortech’s products include General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Volkswagen, AAM, Akebono, Bosch, Magna, Metaldyne, PPG and TRW.

Fortech’s corrosion-resistant coatings are adaptable for spray or dip application for both ferrous and non-ferrous metals. They can be applied at low-film builds, air-dried or force-dried; and don’t require high-temperature bake-cycles. Many Fortech paints and coatings are water-based with low emission levels to support the environmental objectives of its customers.