Martin is proud to be involved in bringing new business to the Lansing area through a deal between Continental Oceans Technology Corporation (COTC) and Meridian Township. Jeff Ridenour, our Senior Associate of Brokerage Services, represented the landlord, Brent Forsberg, in the transaction of the 2,583 SF property. Forsberg’s company supports projects of the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP). LEAP announced this deal that secured COTC a base of operations in the United States.

COTC is a Chinese company that strives to use technology to enhance travel for users. With a system built on global trade, logistics, and travel advisory, the company mainly facilitates experiences for Chinese nationals who are traveling or relocating for personal or professional reasons. This focus aligns with the 1426% increase in visits Chinese nationals have taken outside of China since 2000.

The company’s approach for helping customers starting with Younglode, a platform that identifies possible members with an artificial intelligence system. COTC also uses social media, connects to China’s messaging app known as WeChat, supports cryptocurrency, and incorporates 5G connectivity along with multi-device integration.

This deal emerges in a time of growth for the global travel advisory market. Zeyang Li, CEO of COTC, showcased enthusiasm for the future of his company and the market.

“Our company is well-positioned for rapid growth in the global trade, logistics and travel advisory markets, focusing on providing convenient and connected digital solutions to the global travel consumer,” said Li. “We are excited for the opportunity to partner with LEAP, Meridian Township and the state of Michigan to launch our business here in the United States.”

COTC plans to expand its number of employees in the United States and in global locations within the next three years. Keith Lambert, vice president of business attraction at LEAP, recognizes the company’s potential to thrive in the Lansing area and beyond.

“It is always a delight to land foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in the Lansing region, but especially so during these extraordinary times we face due to the COVID-19 crisis,” said Lambert. “Having companies like COTC based here helps the region retain international talent and diversify our tech cluster – we look forward to continued partnership to ensure their success down the road.”

To read the full press release from LEAP, click here.