Four generations cut the ribbon on D. Martin Enterprises’ new manufacturing facility in Michigan City.

The family-owned company also marked 50 years in business serving the steel industry.

D. Martin Enterprises’ new building at 50 Motts Parkway expands its steel industry offerings with approximately 116,400 square feet of manufacturing space and 4,000 square feet of office space. Construction was launched in 2024.

“The basement is where it all started … though my grandma told me that was just a temporary office in-between,” said Cory Martin, D. Martin Enterprises director of HR/communications, in a press release. “Either way, it was a start, a small start that just kept going.”

The business began with Don Martin Sr. and his wife Betty providing services for the electric arc furnace steel mills across the country. It continued with Gary and Don Martin Jr.

“None of us would be here without the foundation of our grandparents, parents and uncle,” Cassie Martin Graham, D. Martin Enterprises president, said. “On my first visit to a mill, I saw scrap metal get struck by what looks like lightning bolts, melt into glowing liquid and poured from one vessel to another. Our mission here at DME is to keep that liquid steel contained.”

Clarence Hulse, Economic Development Corp. Michigan City executive director, said family-owned businesses have a unique strength and story.

“When you have so many family members integral to the growth and direction of a business, you have a special recipe for success as there is an investment like no other,” Hulse said. “How amazing to see DME start the next phase with the founders’ granddaughters at the helm reinforcing roots here in Michigan City.”

Cory Martin said their grandparents started D. Martin Enterprises because they saw the need and opportunity in the steel industry.

“Here’s to the next chapter in our journey that got us here,” Cory Martin said.