A packaging company that serves the auto industry is expanding in the region.

Holland-based ITB Packaging is spending $3.5 million to purchase equipment that will allow the company to hire at least 65 workers over three years, according to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, or MEDC.

ITB has also identified a new facility for lease in Holland, at 430 W. 18th St., that would allow the company to operate out of two locations and eventually expand at the new facility. It is based at 147 E. 6th St. 

There is the potential for creating up to 85 jobs and nearly $10 million of investment over five years, the MEDC said.

ITB has already hired 17 new employees, said Jeff Tischleder, CEO of ITB Packaging.

Founded in 2011, ITB Packaging produces patented packaging materials largely used in North American auto markets. The products include totes, stacked plastic bins and bulk bins used for shipping auto parts.

The company continues to experience significant growth and plans to purchase new custom equipment to accommodate the increased demand, MEDC said.

Zeeland-based Lakeshore Advantage, an economic development organization, connected the company with local and state resources to support the expansion.

Michigan was chosen for the expansion over a competing site in Mexico, according to MEDC.

“When faced with the choice of where to expand, the decision was quite easy, given the vibrant and innovative manufacturing epicenter in Holland,” Tischleder said. “We look forward to our continued investments into talent, facilities and capital equipment resources here in West Michigan.”

MEDC approved a $325,000 Michigan Business Development Program grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund.

West Michigan Works! is supporting the project with more than $546,000 in staff time, incumbent worker training grants and on-the-job training.