Michelin to Build Automated Tire Distribution Complex in South Carolina
Michelin North America said it plans to spend $270 million to build a new distribution complex near Spartanburg, South Carolina, to handle tires for passenger vehicles, heavy trucks and agricultural equipment.
The construction of five buildings spanning a total of 3.3 million square feet will begin later this year and will feature new equipment to automate warehouse operations, including receiving, tire selection, sequencing and shipping, plus new warehouse management software and controls.
RELATED: In typical roadside tire emergencies, it’s often tire makers to the rescue
The first phase of the project is expected to open in late 2017 with completion set for early 2019, creating 350 jobs, company officials announced Sept. 26.
“The Spartanburg distribution facility will cap a multiyear evolution of Michelin’s distribution network in North America,” said Pete Selleck, chairman and president of Michelin North America. “We see it as a transformational milestone designed to better serve our customers while optimizing inventories and improving supply efficiency.”
RELATED: Manufacturers say fleet testing essential for developing improved truck tires
South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley said Michelin has been one of the state’s most important business partners since it opened a plant in Greenville County more than four decades ago. Michelin North America operates a total of seven tire plants in South Carolina’s Upstate region and has its headquarters in Greenville.
Michelin operates a total of 19 manufacturing plants in North America.
The new distribution center will be located near the intersection of South Carolina Highways 101 and 417 with access to Interstate 385 and I-26 and close to the new South Carolina Inland Port at Dillon and the Port of Charleston.
