News & Fun in Michigan
We offer a glimpse of some unique small Michigan business shops, bars, art studios, restaurants, farm markets, and manufacturers. We adhere to the buy-local philosophy whenever possible. Sometimes, we may offer locally produced products and services via Amazon.
Here are some of our best stories.
Wendy’s will close 140 underperforming locations nationwide, including some in Michigan, as part of a strategic effort to modernize the brand. The company plans to open 250 to 300 new restaurants globally while addressing employee and customer concerns about these closures.
Michigan has risen to No. 10 in Site Selection’s 2024 Business Climate Rankings, up from No. 20 in 2022. This advancement is largely attributed to the ‘Make It in Michigan’ initiative, aimed at fostering job creation and enhancing local communities. The state is recognized for its business-friendly environment and continued economic development efforts.
Michigan’s job market flourished in Fiscal Year 2024, adding 27,000 jobs with significant growth in construction, reaching over 200,000 employed for the first time in two decades. The state also saw wage increases, a robust labor force participation rate, and investments in clean energy and advanced manufacturing, solidifying its economic resilience.
Governor Whitmer announced the winner of the PitchMI competition, Civilized Cycles, which received a $100,000 award to enhance urban transportation. New programs, including “Changing Lanes” for displaced auto workers and the expanded Michigander Scholars Program, aim to transition workers into mobility sectors and retain tech talent in Michigan’s evolving industry.
True Value Company has entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy to facilitate a sale of its operations to Do it Best Corp, ensuring stakeholder value amid market challenges. The deal protects independent retail stores, continues day-to-day operations, and aims to enhance competitiveness against big retailers. True Value anticipates completing the transaction by the end of 2024.
Macy’s, a longstanding retailer in Michigan, is considering closing its stores in the state as part of a strategy to downsize, with 150 U.S. closures planned by 2024. Financial struggles and a shift toward luxury brands have pressured the company, impacting employees and customers alike as shopping habits change.
Michigan’s Hemlock Semiconductor secures a $325 million grant from the CHIPS Act to expand production, create over 1,000 jobs, and build a more resilient supply chain.
Sheetz is expanding in Michigan with new stores in Ypsilanti and Eastpointe, enhancing the local convenience store market. Their 24/7 service, custom food options, and competitive pricing are winning over consumers. The expansion is expected to create jobs and stimulate local economies while positioning Sheetz as a strong competitor against established brands.
