ACCELERATE JACKSON
Target Industries of Jackson County
Automotive & Advanced Mobility
The automotive and advanced mobility sector encompasses the design, manufacturing, and integration of vehicles and cutting-edge mobility technologies. This includes traditional components like engines and braking systems, as well as innovations in electric propulsion, autonomous driving, connected vehicle systems, and lightweight materials. Across Michigan, the industry benefits from a deep-rooted manufacturing ecosystem, extensive supplier networks, and a strong labor base, positioning the state as a global leader in the automotive industry.
Jackson County is home to a strong cluster of manufacturers that support both traditional automotive production and the future of advanced mobility. At the center of this ecosystem is Michigan Automotive Compressor, Inc. (MACI), the county’s largest manufacturer and one of its top employers. MACI has long been recognized for producing world-class automotive compressors, and in recent years the company has reinforced its commitment to the future by investing in new technologies that support the growing electric vehicle (EV) market. This strategic investment underscores Jackson County’s role in Michigan’s broader mobility transformation and positions the region as a player in next-generation vehicle innovation.
Complementing MACI’s leadership are several other advanced manufacturers that strengthen the local supply chain. Jackson Flexible Products delivers custom elastomer and rubber solutions used in demanding automotive applications, while TAC Manufacturing, Inc., a Japanese-owned company, produces critical safety and security components such as steering wheels, shift levers, and locking systems for global automakers. Jackson Precision Industries adds further depth with its expertise in forging, stamping, and metal fabrication, providing high-quality parts that support the broader automotive industry.
Together, these companies highlight Jackson County’s blend of precision manufacturing capabilities, international investment, and forward-looking innovation. By balancing long-standing strengths in automotive component production with new commitments to advanced mobility and EV technologies, the county continues to secure its position as an essential hub in Michigan’s evolving automotive supply chain.
Notable Companies in Jackson County (Automotive & Mobility)
Food & Beverage
The food and beverage manufacturing industry is a cornerstone of the U.S. economy, encompassing the processing, packaging, and distribution of food products that supply both domestic and global markets. This sector includes baked goods, beverages, condiments, and specialty ingredients, with companies investing heavily in automation, advanced packaging, and food safety technologies to meet growing consumer demand for quality and convenience. With rising interest in sustainability, health-conscious products, and supply chain efficiency, food manufacturers are increasingly adopting innovative production methods and expanding into new product lines to remain competitive.
Jackson County boasts a dynamic and diverse food manufacturing cluster that spans globally renowned brands and long-standing regional producers. Foremost among them is Dawn Foods, a century-old, family-owned business headquartered in Jackson. With a reputation for innovation and reliability, they supply bakery ingredients like mixes, icings, fillings, and frozen products to customers worldwide.
Equally prominent, Fry Krisp Food Products has served the region since 1950, specializing in coating mixes, batters, and breadings that cater to both commercial and retail needs. Aunt Millie’s Bakery further strengthens the local industry landscape by producing widely distributed breads, rolls, and baked goods across the Midwest.
Adding a noteworthy regional layer, Dawson Food Products, founded in 1954, continues to serve as a family-owned name in batter and breading manufacturing—highlighting Jackson’s rich tradition of specialty mix production.
Together, these companies exhibit the breadth of Jackson County's food manufacturing capabilities, from industrial-scale bakery ingredient operations and branded baked goods to specialty mixes, underscored by robust packaging and distribution networks. This powerful suite of local producers reinforces the county’s reputation as a vital hub in Michigan’s food processing and packaging sector.
Notable Companies in Jackson County
(Food & Beverage)
Defense Manufacturing
The defense manufacturing industry plays a critical role in national security, producing advanced systems, components, and technologies that support military readiness. This sector spans aerospace systems, ground vehicles, communications equipment, weapons components, and protective materials. Driven by federal investment and strategic partnerships, defense manufacturers prioritize innovation, precision, and reliability. Michigan’s defense sector leverages its engineering expertise, industrial capacity, and established supply chains to serve both U.S. and allied military needs.
Jackson County contributes to Michigan’s defense ecosystem through a cluster of companies known for precision engineering and advanced component manufacturing. A cornerstone of this cluster is Danfoss, which operates a major facility in Jackson specializing in hydraulics and power solutions. Their products are used globally in defense, aerospace, and heavy equipment applications where durability and reliability are mission critical.
Complementing Danfoss, Orbitform supplies assembly and fastening systems that are widely applied in defense and aerospace manufacturing. Technique, Inc. provides prototype and low-volume stamping and fabrication services, supporting defense contractors with quick-turn production and innovation. Hendrickson further strengthens the sector with heavy-duty suspension systems that can be applied to military transport vehicles. Together, these companies highlight Jackson County’s strong role in serving the defense supply chain, blending innovation with high-precision manufacturing expertise.
Notable Companies in Jackson County
(Defense Manufacturing)
Fabricated Metals and Precision Machining
The fabricated metals and precision machining industry forms the backbone of advanced manufacturing. These companies specialize in metalworking, machining, forging, and stamping processes that supply critical parts to industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical devices, defense, and energy. Increasingly, precision machining leverages advanced computer-controlled equipment, robotics, and quality assurance systems to deliver high-performance parts that meet tight tolerances.
With a strong heritage in manufacturing, Jackson County is home to a diverse range of fabricated metal and machining businesses. Alro Steel, founded and headquartered in Jackson, is a national leader in metals distribution and processing, supplying raw materials and services to manufacturers across North America.
Companies such as Classic Turning and Advance Turning & Manufacturing highlight the county’s precision machining expertise, producing high-tolerance components for industries including aerospace, defense, and automotive. Orbitform further enhances the ecosystem with custom assembly and fastening solutions, while smaller specialized machine shops contribute to a deep supply chain network.
Notable Companies in Jackson County
(Fabricated Metals & Precision Machining)
Ecommerce
The e-commerce sector continues to grow rapidly, stretching far beyond online storefronts to include increasingly sophisticated fulfillment, logistics, warehousing, and last-mile services. To meet heightened demand, companies are investing heavily in automation, inventory and warehouse management systems, and strategic fulfillment networks. Jackson County—located along key transportation corridors and supported by a strong industrial workforce—is well positioned to serve growing online retail operations.
Jackson County is home to a growing cluster of fulfillment and logistics providers that support the rapid expansion of e-commerce across the Midwest. Red Stag Fulfillment operates a state-of-the-art 3PL facility in Jackson, offering high-accuracy warehousing, kitting, and order fulfillment services, including support for Amazon Seller-fulfilled Prime. Their strategic location allows them to reach the vast majority of U.S. households within two days, giving local businesses a competitive edge in online retail. QuickBox Fulfillment adds to this strength with a strong reputation for flexibility and order accuracy, providing warehousing, shipping, and supply chain support tailored to the needs of e-commerce brands.
Complementing these fulfillment providers, Chainworks Incorporated (CWI) brings global supply chain expertise to Jackson, offering logistics management, just-in-time delivery, and turnkey warehousing solutions that reduce costs and streamline procurement. Nearby, Slingshot Transportation Inc. specializes in freight and warehousing services, with advanced capabilities in cold-chain and dry storage, pick-and-pack fulfillment, and real-time monitored temperature-controlled facilities. Together, these companies showcase the diversity and innovation of Jackson County’s logistics sector, blending high-tech fulfillment with specialized supply chain services that support both regional and national e-commerce operations.