Yokohama Tire Corp. opened a new distribution center today near Columbus, Ohio, with local dignitaries and Yokohama executives cutting the ribbon to the 650,000-plus square foot facility (see previous announcement).
The new distribution center in Groveport, Ohio, is Yokohama’s fourth in the U.S. The company also has facilities in Auburn, Ga., Salem, Va., Atlanta, Ga., and Fullerton, Calif.
It will bring its consumer tire products, including its Advan, Parada, Avid and Geolandar lines, to dealers and customers in the Northeastern U.S., an area previously served by Yokohama’s distribution center near Atlanta.
“This beautiful, modern distribution center will allow us to better serve our customers, and will help our business grow in the Northeast,” said Jim MacMaster, executive vice president, Business Division for Yokohama. “Building the facility in Ohio was a strategic decision, as it places us closer to our customer base.”
Yokohama executives worked with an outside consulting firm to identify the most attractive location for its new distribution center. “Columbus, Ohio, is located within 500 miles of 60% of the U.S. population,” said Takahara Fushimi, vice president of operations and chief financial officer for Yokohama.
The new facility is expected to create up to 50 new jobs in the area.
