Packaging firm plans move to South Bend from southwest Michigan

Tri-Pac Inc. will relocate from its facility on Michigan 60 in Vandalia to the corner of Nimitz Parkway and Kenmore Street, said Vikram Shah, Tri-Pac’s founder and president.

The South Bend Common Council Monday night approved a resolution creating the first of two steps needed to grant Tri-Pac property tax abatements on the land and equipment. The abatement calls for Tri-Pac to immediately move 40 full-time positions from Vandalia to South Bend, and create at least 20 new jobs over seven years.

In exchange, the company will enjoy $84,000 in property tax savings, paying about $314,000 in property taxes over the seven years. Shah said the jobs will pay $18 to $33 per hour.

Tri-Pac is in negotiations to buy the building and plans to invest at least $1 million in renovations or modifications, said Dan Buckenmeyer, director of business development in the city’s Department of Community Investment.