Michelin to Close BFGoodrich Plant in Tuscaloosa, 1,200 Jobs Affected
Michelin North America announced on Thursday the gradual closure of its BFGoodrich production facility in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, with a dismantling schedule extending until the end of 2028. The consolidation of manufacturing at the Fort Wayne, Indiana site aims to address structural inefficiencies, as both American plants of the brand are operating well below capacity.
Closure of the Tuscaloosa Plant Between Early 2027 and End of 2028
Michelin North America will proceed with the gradual dismantling of operations at the BFGoodrich site in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The timeline begins in early 2027 and will conclude by the end of 2028. The plant, acquired in 1990, manufactures passenger car tires under the BFGoodrich brand and currently employs about 1,200 people. Nearly all production will be consolidated at the Fort Wayne, Indiana site.
Two Sites Operating Well Below Capacity
The two American BFGoodrich sites are operating significantly below their design capacities, creating structural inefficiencies deemed unsustainable by the group. The consolidation of operations at the Fort Wayne site is expected to produce a more efficient industrial structure and reduce these excess costs. This reorganization is part of an effort to optimize production capacities.
Accounting Charge of 220 Million Euros in 2026
Michelin will record a provision of approximately 220 million euros for non-recurring expenses in its consolidated financial results for the year 2026. This provision covers the costs associated with the closure of the Tuscaloosa plant.
