AKRON—Goodyear is suspending production at its tire, retread and chemical plants in North and South America through at least April 3, saying operations will be phased out in the coming days. The move is in response to the sudden decline in market demand that is resulting from the rapid spread of COVID-19.
The decision will affect the company's plants in Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and the U.S. The company's plant in Peru was closed earlier this week.
Goodyear's closure of the North and South American facilities comes one day after suspending production at its tire and retread plants throughout Europe.
Goodyear operates 13 tire plants throughout the Americas, employing roughly 17,000 workers.
The company said it will monitor closely the local conditions surrounding its warehouse and distribution operations, as well as inventory and supply levels.
To further protect the health and wellbeing of its associates, customers and communities, the company is following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and has introduced preventive measures at its facilities, including limiting visitor access and business travel, implementing remote working and social distancing practices, and increasing frequency of disinfection.