Michelin brand tires will be made in Mexico to satisfy Mexican demand

July 12, 2006

Strong consumer demand in Mexico fueled Michelin North America's decision to upgrade production capacity at its Queretaro plant to include Michelin brand tires.

“In the past three years, Michelin’s replacement tire sales in Mexico have jumped more than 60%, outpacing the market more than six times,” says Jim Micali, the company's chairman and president. “Mexico is one of the top 10 tire markets in the world, growing at almost twice the rate of the U.S. market. Until today, every Michelin brand tire sold in Mexico was imported. It is crucial for us to have in-country production to meet the phenomenal demand in Mexico and to increase our total North American capacity for Michelin brand’s high-quality tires.”

Today’s announcement was accompanied by the unveiling of a new Michelin sign for the Queretaro facility -– proof that it is certified to meet the high quality standards of the Michelin brand.

Mexican demand for Michelin tires is growing in other tire segments as well. Two months ago, Michelin announced the construction of a new plant in Queretaro, adjacent to the passenger car tire facility, that will produce tread rubber for retreading Michelin’s commercial truck tires.

This new facility will open in spring 2007 and bring 120 additional jobs to the city. Currently, Michelin’s growing work force in Mexico represents approximately 5% of its North American total.