Delta Dental "Goes Green" With Expansion of Michigan Headquarters.

Project Highlights Renewed Commitment to Grow in Michigan

OKEMOS, Mich. -- Delta Dental of Michigan today announced plans to expand its Okemos headquarters with sound environmental practices, and to create up to 150 new jobs. Dr. Thomas J. Fleszar, president and chief executive officer

"Delta Dental is among the largest benefits providers in the nation," said Fleszar. "We started here in Michigan 50 years ago and we are keeping our corporate headquarters here. Michigan is a great place for our employees to live and work, and we are proud to be part of its future."

The company was founded as the Michigan Dental Service Corporation in 1957 at a time when dental coverage was not typically considered a part of a standard benefits package. Today, as it celebrates its 50th year in business, Delta Dental of Michigan has affiliates in Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee and currently provides coverage for 6.2 million enrollees in more than 4,000 organizations. In the last 10 years, the company's revenues have tripled to more than $1.9 billion.

Fleszar said Delta Dental anticipates adding up to 150 new jobs over a 10-year period, bringing the workforce to approximately 800. The knowledge-based jobs will be created to support the company's business growth initiatives, which include offering dental benefits to more people in more places.

"Our economic plan is designed to ensure that Michigan is a great state for companies to locate in and grow," said Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. "This expansion by Delta Dental of their headquarters sets in motion the company's growth in Michigan and sends a message to the world that Michigan is a great state to do business in the 21st century. We applaud Delta Dental for their 50 years of leadership and celebrate their commitment to Michigan."

The building expansion, to begin in the spring of 2008, will incorporate the world's best practices for designing and constructing energy efficient, environmentally sensitive buildings.

Delta Dental will seek a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, the national benchmark for buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to work. It will also seek certification from the Wildlife Habitat Council for its efforts to develop sustainable habitats on its 57-acre campus.