May 9th, 2024

BATTLE CREEK, MICH – Battle Creek was host to over 70 senior-level government, business, policy, and economic leaders from 20 countries as part of this year’s Americas Competitiveness Exchange (ACE) tour of Michigan.

The delegation toured two locations, considered among Michigan’s best of the best in Southeast and Southwest Michigan: WK Kellogg Co and Duncan Aviation. Each company showcased Battle Creek’s penchant for innovation and our continuous growth in key industries. Both WK Kellogg Co and Duncan Aviation have made significant investment into the Battle Creek community in the past year.

For their first tour, delegates were treated to a visit with the iconic Tony the Tiger as well as breakfast provided by WK Kellogg Co.  They also learned about the company’s history in Battle Creek as well as their recent investment into the city. Stacy Flathau, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer for WK Kellogg Co, remarked: “Participating in ACE Michigan presents a fantastic opportunity for WK Kellogg Co to highlight our longstanding heritage and commitment in Battle Creek, as well as our vision for the future. It is an honor to be recognized among Michigan’s best, and we are grateful to the ACE team and the MEDC for promoting and supporting business here in our hometown.”

Next on the visit to Battle Creek was Duncan Aviation to showcase their top-of-the-line work in the aviation industry. Participants were able to tour the original Duncan facility as well as their recently completed expansion. Duncan shared insight into their industry and their global impact as well as their history in Battle Creek. Travis Grimsley, Vice President of Aircraft Services, stated “Duncan Aviation is thrilled to have been chosen as a tour site by ACE. This chance has enabled us to highlight not only our innovative business and company culture but also our commitment to our community. We are thankful to ACE and the MEDC for selecting Duncan as a site to be featured among the best of the best in Michigan.”

President & CEO of BCU, Joe Sobieralski, stated: “This event highlights Battle Creek among the best cities in the state of Michigan due to companies like WK Kellogg Co and Duncan Aviation that continue to invest in Battle Creek. We are thrilled to showcase Battle Creek and are grateful to the MEDC for choosing our city as an ACE tour location and to both WK Kellogg Co and Duncan Aviation for opening their doors for this opportunity.”

ACE is the premier economic development, innovation, and entrepreneurial network of the Americas. Beginning in 2014, tours have been held in rotation between two different countries. Each location must go through a bidding process to be considered. Displaying an aptitude for innovation, investment, and leading industries, Michigan was selected. In addition to Battle Creek, delegates toured Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Ann Arbor. The 16 total ACE events have resulted in over 1160 showcased projects.

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ABOUT BATTLE CREEK UNLIMITED

Established in 1972, Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) is a private, non-profit corporation which serves as the economic development arm for the City of Battle Creek and manages the Fort Custer Industrial Park. The Fort Custer Industrial Park is home to over 80 businesses, including 25 international companies, and employs over 13,000 people. BCU’s mission is to build a strong community by driving strategic investment and job creation. Visit BCUnlimited.org for more info.

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