The Right Place assists with Fifth Wheel Freight expansion

Today, The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, announced that Fifth Wheel Freight will be expanding, resulting in a capital investment of $40 million and bringing up to 352 new jobs.

B & L Systems LLC dba Fifth Wheel Freight (FWF), founded in 2012 in Lansing and now located in Kentwood, is a third-party logistics and transportation provider that offers full-service logistics solutions to its clientele. The company is actively pursuing opportunities for future growth and plans to establish a new flagship headquarters at a yet-to-be-determined location.

FWF has the ability to offer less-than-truckload and full-truckload shipping, with growing proficiencies in intermodal, drayage, and domestic and international ground and air freight services. The company currently has 157 employees.

FWF considered opening satellite offices in Indiana, Ohio, and Tennessee before choosing to establish a flagship headquarters in Michigan. This strategic move will allow FWF to play to its operational strengths and talent base while strategically expanding nationwide.

“Our industry has witnessed a rapid adoption of technology and automation by many brokerages,” said Fifth Wheel Freight President Joshua Brawley. “At FWF, we firmly believe that despite the changing trends in our industry, people will always remain our most valuable asset. We would like to express our deep appreciation to our partners, The Right Place, The MEDC, and Plante Moran Realpoint, for their efforts in moving FWF and our team members towards a brighter future. This support not only highlights the immense value of logistics jobs but also ensures that these essential roles and the exceptional skillsets they bring remain in Michigan. This grant is a testament to the state's commitment to fostering a robust job market, particularly in the logistics sector, which is the backbone of efficient and effective supply chains. As a privately-owned Michigan-based logistics company, we are excited to contribute to the economic growth and resilience of our local community through this initiative.”

The newly created positions will include logistics consultants, sales executives, business development representatives, and a variety of technology positions with opportunities for growth within the organization. FWF takes pride in building skillsets that establish the foundation for long-term success and career growth and offers full benefits, competitive pay, and more. With their industry-leading training and development programs, each team member at FWF is poised for long-term success in an industry expected to double in market size by 2028.

The project will produce high-paying logistics jobs with a well-positioned, privately owned employer and continue to deepen FWF’s presence in West Michigan and future business in the state.

“We’re thrilled to see the continued growth of Kentwood-based company Fifth Wheel Freight. We look forward to working with them as they continue to thrive here in our region,” said Rob Llanes, Senior Vice President of Business Development at The Right Place.

Information on careers with Fifth Wheel Freight can be found here.