Chaparral has been producing boats in Berrien County since 1976. It is the county's largest employer (more than 1,000), and its six plants encompass an industrial park, complete with more than 1.2 million square feet of manufacturing space. The company has a $119 million impact on the local economy, the chamber said.
"Chaparral is a very vital part of the economy in our county," said Crissy Staly, executive director of the Berrien County Chamber of Commerce, in a statement. "They heavily contribute, both monetarily and voluntarily. We thank them for their unwavering commitment to our community."
Chaparral president and CEO Jim Lane and founder Buck Pegg accepted the award on behalf of all the employees.
"In the 32 years that our company has been in Nashville, it is our employees that have made us what we are today," Lane said in a statement.
Chaparral is a subsidiary of Marine Products Corp., which also makes Robalo Boats in Valdosta, Ga.
