The French tire manufacturer Michelin announced the definitive closure of its industrial plant in the state of Querétaro, Mexico, by the end of 2025. The brand stated that this decision is due to transformations in the tire market for passenger cars and light trucks, which have rendered the infrastructure of that facility obsolete.
According to the company’s official statement, the closure will affect 480 employees, who will be supported through a gradual exit process with specific support measures. The Querétaro plant was the first Michelin established in Mexico and currently produces fewer than half a million tires annually, mainly under the BFGoodrich brand, as well as retread bands for truck tires.
ALSO READ. Chipotle launches its first new dip in five years! What’s it and when will it go on sale?
Why is Michelin closing the Querétaro plant?
Michelin explained that the closure is due to two main factors: a shift in demand toward larger-size tires, for which the plant is not equipped, and the technological obsolescence of the facilities, which prevents their transformation into an efficient and competitive operation.
“Ending the history of our first plant in Mexico has been one of the most difficult decisions we’ve ever had to make. It was decided after evaluating all possible alternatives,” said Matthieu Aubron, CEO of Michelin for the Mexico and Central America region. According to the executive, the decision was made after a thorough analysis of options.
What will happen to Michelin’s workers?
The company stated that it will offer individual support to the affected employees, including severance packages, job relocation programs, and external training to facilitate their integration into other productive sectors. It also committed to working with local authorities to develop strategies that will benefit the Querétaro community.
As part of these actions, Michelin announced the creation of a fund aimed at promoting sustainable activities in the region, in collaboration with state and municipal institutions.
What Michelin plants are there in Mexico?
Despite the closure of the Querétaro plant, Michelin reiterated that it will maintain its presence in Mexico. The company will continue operating its corporate headquarters in the same state, as well as its Shared Services Center (CBS), which serves Mexico and Central America.
Michelin will also continue operations at its plant in León, Guanajuato, considered one of the most modern facilities of the group worldwide. This site produces tires for a broader range of applications, including automobiles, trucks, agricultural machinery, mining, and specialized vehicles.
