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Distribution and logistics

Macomb County is a key part of an international trade corridor that efficiently moves products throughout the region and internationally. Macomb County is expected to experience a 71% job growth rate in distribution and logistics from 2018 to 2028.

distribution and logistics photo

Macomb County is anchored by a transportation network that possesses the vital infrastructure needed to service emerging industries and a growing population. These infrastructure assets, paired with a world-class manufacturing ecosystem have fostered a robust transportation, logistics, and warehousing sector featuring over 900 companies employing more than 16,700 workers. From just-in-time shipping from supplier to OEM or long-distance hauling, Macomb County can do it all.

Why Macomb County?

  • 70 miles of rail corridor running through two major industrial corridors.
  • Two International airports (Detroit Metropolitan Airport and Flint Bishop Airport) less than an hour away from
  • Two international border crossings, less than an hour away
  • Interstates 696 and 94, part of a six interstate network that moves people and goods throughout the metro Detroit region.
  • A network of state highways, including M-53, M-59, M-97, M-3, M-19, M-102, and M-29, that provides important regional transportation linkages.
  • Easy connection to I-75 and I-80 for cross county transportation

Workforce snapshot

71% Projected Job Growth from 2018-2028
11,514 Jobs in 2018
16,735 Jobs in 2023
19,678 Projected jobs in 2028
923 Establishments

Important industry data

  • $1.59 billion industry gross regional product (GRP)
Warehousing sales data
  • $3 billion in total sales in 2021
  • $2.01 billion in regional sales in 2021 (59% of total sales)
  • The Detroit region is the sixth-largest metro in the nation for exports, and Michigan businesses export products to more than 230 countries. (Source: Detroit Regional Partnership)

Programs available for businesses

  • Michigan Economic Development Corporation -- financing through the MEDC, small to medium-sized businesses in Michigan utilize the its multiple capital access programs to maintain and grow their companies when private sector lenders need assistance in providing a loan
  • Five truck driver training schools located within the county
  • Freight Economic Development program -- assists new or expanding rail customers with up to 50% of the costs associated with rail infrastructure on their property, like rail spurs. Projects need to have associated job creation and rail car generation
  • The Greater Detroit Foreign Trade Zone, Inc. -- provides a competitive advantage to U.S.-based companies involved in international trade through the deferral, reduction, or elimination of U.S. Customs duties. Through cooperative efforts with public and private organizations, these advantages are used to attract and retain businesses that create employment and economic activity in southeast Michigan
  • Macomb Community College programs -- the Michigan New Jobs Training Program is an economic development tool that allows community colleges to helps cover some of the employer cost associated with training needs of new employees that are creating new jobs and/or expanding operations in Michigan. The training for the newly hired workers is paid by capturing the state income tax associated with the new employees' wages
  • Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! programs -- On-The-Job-Training program offers an incentive to employers for hiring eligible job seekers and providing them new skills training. OJT provides reimbursement to the employer; up to 50% of the new employee’s wages for a designated period. This reimbursement assists in covering some of the extraordinary costs of providing the training
  • Michigan Business Development Program (BDP) -- provides grants, loans and other economic assistance to businesses for highly competitive projects in Michigan that create jobs and/or provide investment and results in a net-positive return to Michigan

Industry partners

  • Detroit Regional Partnership (DRP) - The DRP offers confidential, no-cost assistance to domestic and international companies interested in investing in the 11-county Detroit region. We specialize in helping companies understand and access the competitive advantages of our region–from workforce data to state and local incentives.
  • Macomb Community College (MCC) - The MCC mission is to transform lives and communities through the power of education, enrichment and economic development. The College's goal is to be a leader in higher education, improving society through innovative learning experiences that create pathways for personal advancement and drive economic vitality.
  • Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! - The Michigan Works! Association provides services and support to Michigan’s workforce development system. Through the Association, members can access timely, relevant professional development opportunities and ensure high-quality programs for all customers. The Association believes the key to advancing prosperity across the state is a skilled workforce.
  • Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) - MDOT is responsible for Michigan's 9,669-mile state highway system, comprised of all M, I, and US routes. MDOT also administers other state and federal transportation programs for aviation, intercity passenger services, rail freight, local public transit services, grant programs, and others.
  • Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) - The MEDC, in collaboration with more than 100 economic development partners, markets Michigan as the place to do business, assists businesses in their growth strategies, and fosters the growth of vibrant communities across the state. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation has

    tools and resources to support businesses at any stage of growth.
  • Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) - SEMCOG supports local planning through its technical, data, and intergovernmental resources. The work SEMCOG does improves the quality of the region's water, makes the transportation system safer and more efficient, revitalizes communities, and spurs economic development.

Top local companies

  • Amazon
  • Central Transport
  • Detroit International Bridge Co. Inc.
  • Mason Dixon Intermodal Inc.
  • Midwest Freight Systems Corp.
  • Palmer Moving & Storage Co.
  • Palogix Supply Chain Services, LLC
  • Storage and Transportation Co. Inc. 
  • Universal
  • Vitran Express Inc.
Lenny Hali contact headshot

Contact us

To learn more about our free and confidential services.

Economic Developer Hali Lenney 

Email: hali.lenney@macombgov.org 

Call: 586-469-6487

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