TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (Nov. 8. 2001)—Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Manufacturing, an operating division of Michelin North America, said it is reducing production at its Tuscaloosa passenger tire plant, resulting in layoffs for some 400 workers. The company said it also expects additional reductions in the plant's salaried and maintenance staff through normal attrition.
Uniroyal Goodrich said the reductions will remain in place for an indefinite period, depending on future market requirements and competitive conditions. In the meantime, customer demand will be met from existing inventories and other company plants.
A company spokesperson said that although Uniroyal Goodrich previously had responded to this year's deteriorating market through a series of inventory adjustments, it became clear that further action was needed. “We regret having to take this action and hope the economy and tire markets will rebound and that the plant can become more cost competitive,” the spokesperson said.
The Tuscaloosa facility, which employs approximately 1,775 people and produces Uniroyal and Goodrich brand tires, is the oldest in the Uniroyal Goodrich system. It has been “hampered by a lack of progress in productivity and efficiency,” the company said.