GREENVILLE, S.C. — Michelin North America Inc. has begun to idle production at some of its tire plants in Canada and the U.S. due to the broad effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Michelin is calling this a "phased" suspension of manufacturing that will last for at least two weeks but will exclude "vital and critical tires for the country's economic continuity."
Michelin declined to identify at this point in time which plants would be idled, nor say which tire types or lines are considered "vital and critical." Michelin is considered a key U.S. military supplier.
The Greenville-based company operates a dozen tire factories in the U.S. and Canada, employing more than 13,500 hourly workers.
Distribution and logistics activities will continue to support customers through existing inventories, Michelin said. The company said it is monitoring conditions closely and has established appropriate contingency plans, prepared to adjust as the situation evolves.
Michelin said it remains focused on the health and well-being of its employees and communities and is developing plans and revising policies to mitigate the financial impacts of this temporary shutdown on its employees.
The company said it will continue to follow closely all guidelines and directions from state, local and/or provincial governments, with the goal of limiting the spread of the virus and consequences of the pandemic for employees, customers and partners.
Michelin joins Bridgestone Americas, Goodyear, Pirelli Tire North America as tire companies that have announced production suspensions in North America.