Conti hails impressive guests at Sumter plant

Jan. 30, 2014

The guest list for Continental Tire the Americas LLC's recent plant opening in Sumter, S.C., was impressive.

CEO Jochen Etzel spoke. So did Nikolai Setzer, a member of Continental AG’s executive board and head of its global tire business, and Craig Baartman, plant manager. Peter Ammon, the German ambassador to the United States, also said a few words. And, as you might have expected, South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley greeted those in attendance while promoting the heck out of her state.

However, the list of tire dealers on hand for the grand opening might have been just as impressive. Two of the largest wholesale distributors in the United States were represented. So were three members of the Modern Tire Dealer 100. And an automotive parts giant was front and center with the other dealers.

Which dealers, who Etzel referred to as "valued business partners," attended the event? Find out by reading MTD Editor Bob Ulrich's latest blog, "A who's who of dealers turned out for the Continental plant opening."

As always, any comments you may have about either the plant opening or the dealers who attended are welcome. Does it surprise you who attended? Read the blog, and let us know what you think!

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