Nokian opens seventh distribution center near Chicago

SHOREWOOD, Ill. — Nokian Tyres Inc. has opened its seventh distribution center in North America, a 211,000-sq.-ft. facility in Shorewood, near Chicago.

The company said thelocated about 50 miles southwest of Chicago, can store up to 275,000 tires. It began distributing to customers on Aug. 1.

"The opening of the Shorewood distribution center is another example of Nokian Tyres' commitment to investing in North America and meeting the growing consumer demand for our tires," said Tommi Heinonen, head of Nokian's North America subsidiary.

"The distribution center has already helped reduce delivery times improving our ability to serve customers throughout the region."

Xpedient Logistics, a logistics firm that specializes in tire warehousing and supply chain coordination across the U.S., will manage the new facility for Nokian.

Xpedient also manages Nokian's distribution center in Montreal.

"Nokian Tyres has a strong working relationship with Xpedient and have experienced significant success working with them at our other North American distribution centers," added Mr. Heinonen. "We turn to them for their leadership and expertise in the industry."

Nokia, Finland-based Nokian Tyres has experienced strong year-over-year growth in both Canada and the U.S.

The firm will hold a groundbreaking ceremony Sept. 20 for the construction of its $360 million tire plant in Dayton, Tenn., its first in North America.

"Our increasing network of distribution centers in the U.S. and Canada, as well as the opening of the Tennessee plant are key examples of steps Nokian Tires has taken to ensure sales in North America are doubled in the next five years," Mr. Heinonen said.

The company, ranked No. 18 in Tire Business' 2017 Global Tire Rankings with 2016 tire sales of $1.38 billion, is known predominantly for its winter tires, particularly the Hakkapeliitta.