Saab Finds New Home in Royal Oak, MI

Saab cars will have a new home in Royal Oak, MI thanks, in large part, to the State of Michigan Economic Development Council and the City of Royal Oak. The two worked together to establish a $1.4 million tax credit over five years. The project was established in order to convince Saab to keep its headquarters in Michigan. Saab->ke75 plans to move 60 current positions to their new location and will altogether create or retain 2000 jobs in North America.

"This is tremendous news for Oakland County. While the county continues to transform into a knowledge-based economy through my Emerging Sectors, Medical Main Street and Automation Alley initiatives, the automobile industry still employs a large segment of our workforce. This affirms that we remain the global center of the auto industry. Credit is due to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, my Economic Development Department and Royal Oak," said L. Brooks Patterson, Oakland County Executive.

"One thing that Michigan offers above all else is a really great supply of people who are automotive experts. When you're running an organization that is trying to sell and market and service cars in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, you need good people," Mike Colleran, Saab president and chief operating officer, said.

The recently purchased Saab will end up investing $2.4 million in its Sales and Marketing operations and with that they hope to renew their presence in the United States. Employees should be moving in to their new 13,000 square foot facility at 4327 Delemere Court by the end of March.

Press Release

Saab Cars North America today announced that its headquarters will reside in Royal Oak, Michigan, creating or retaining approximately 2000 jobs in North America. The company will invest $2.4 million to enhance its U.S. Sales and Marketing operations. Saab Automobile AB was recently purchased by the Dutch automobile company, Spyker Cars NV.

"Saab Cars North America appreciates the assistance and cooperation of the City of Royal Oak and the Governor's office in helping make the company's decision a reality during tough economic times," said Mike Colleran, President and COO, Saab Cars North America. "As a direct result in acquiring local and state assistance, we look forward to renewing our U.S. presence as an independent, premium luxury automotive brand with Swedish heritage while maintaining our loyal following and potentially attracting new customers."

"From advanced batteries to homeland security and life sciences to building materials, companies across all industry sectors are choosing Michigan for their growth plans, because our state is a great state in which to do business," Governor Granholm said.

The State of Michigan Economic Development Council worked with the City of Royal Oak to secure the project. Governor Granholm approved a state tax credit, with local contribution by the City of Royal Oak, for a total benefit of $1.4 million over five years to encourage the company to expand in Michigan versus other competing states.