Gateway Industrial Center: A Detroit Turnaround Story

The Gateway Industrial Center in Detroit has undergone a remarkable transformation since Innovo Development Group acquired the property in 2020. Once a largely vacant and deteriorating complex, the 69-acre site has been reimagined into a modern, high-performing industrial hub — catalyzing job creation and fueling Detroit’s economic resurgence.

Originally constructed in 1948 as the world headquarters and manufacturing plant for Massey Ferguson, the property had experienced decades of heavy industrial use before falling into disrepair. At the time of acquisition, the site faced serious infrastructure challenges and a vacancy rate exceeding 40 percent across its 1 million-square-feet of existing industrial space. Recognizing its strategic location and potential, Innovo launched a bold redevelopment initiative to reposition Gateway for 21st-century industry.

The revitalization efforts included the demolition of obsolete structures, comprehensive building upgrades and installation of high-efficiency systems such as LED lighting, ESFR fire suppression and modern HVAC. Deferred maintenance was systematically addressed throughout the site. A cornerstone of the redevelopment was the construction of a new 421,000-square-foot speculative industrial facility, offering 36-foot clear heights, 50-by-50-foot column spacing and extensive vehicle and trailer parking. Today, Gateway offers 1.44 million square feet of built space.

Located at 12601 Southfield Freeway with immediate access to I-96 and nearby rail lines, Gateway has become a magnet for industrial users. The renewed site has attracted a diverse roster of tenants, including major players in automotive and advanced manufacturing.

One anchor tenant is Tiberina Group, an Italian automotive supplier specializing in body-in-white and metal stampings. Tiberina signed a long-term lease for 200,000 square feet — marking its second U.S. facility — and plans to initially employ approximately 80 workers, with expansion potential based on future project awards.

Another significant development is the expansion of Detroit Manufacturing Systems (DMS), a longtime leader in just- in-time manufacturing and automotive component assembly. In early 2025, DMS entered a merger agreement with Android Industries and Avancez, forming Voltava LLC. This newly unified organization enhances global capabilities, merges complementary technologies, and expands service offerings to OEM clients across industries. The impact of Gateway’s revitalization is clear. The arrival of tenants like Tiberina and the growth of DMS have directly contributed to the creation of hundreds of jobs and renewed investment in Detroit’s west side, including the Grandmont and Schoolcraft neighborhoods.

Gateway stands as a testament to the transformative power of strategic redevelopment. By aligning investment with the evolving needs of modern industry, Innovo has not only restored a legacy site but helped reinvigorate Detroit’s industrial backbone — positioning the city for continued growth in advanced manufacturing and logistics.

About the Author

Richard “Trae” Allman is Principal and Co-founder of Innovo Development Group, leading transformative real estate projects across Michigan. He brings 25+ years of experience and over $1 billion in completed developments. He may be reached at 844-546-6686 or trae@innovodev.com.

Innovo Development Group is an MMA Premium Associate Member and has been an MMA member since April 2025. Visit online: innovodev.com.