Area Development
Tire maker Michelin North America will invest $200 million in another expansion of its rubber production operations complex in Anderson County, South Carolina, with plans to hire 100 additional workers.

“I am proud to say this new expansion at this facility is one of the lynchpins that will allow us to maintain Michelin’s industry leadership in providing customers with the best tires in all categories,” said Pete Selleck, chairman and president of Michelin North America. “Michelin’s continued investment in Anderson County and the state of South Carolina is a testament to our proven, high-quality workforce here.”

Michelin North America said it will expand its rubber production facility, located at One Bib Way in Starr, South Carolina, in order to keep up with increasing demand that has its factories in North America building more tires of every kind and size. The expansion is expected to be operational in 2014. Construction has begun on the Starr plant expansion, which will be adjacent to the current facility. Also nearby is Michelin’s previously announced Earthmover tire plant that is being built and is scheduled to begin producing tires later this year.

As an incentive, the Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved a set aside grant of $1.5 million for site preparation and approved job development credits.

“It’s exciting to see a world-class company like Michelin choose to further expand its footprint in our state. We celebrate Michelin’s decision to invest $200 million and create 100 new jobs in Starr. When one of South Carolina’s largest manufacturers chooses to expand here, it helps send the message that the Palmetto State is the right place to do business,” said Governor Nikki Haley.

Today’s announcement is the second expansion announcement in South Carolina for the company in less than a year, the Governor’s office said. Last April, Michelin announced expansion plans and committed to invest $750 million and create 500 new jobs in Anderson and Lexington counties. In the last 21 months, the company has committed to invest a total of $1.15 billion and create at least 870 new jobs in South Carolina.

“South Carolina has really become the national leader in the tire industry and today’s announcement by Michelin just adds to our reputation. Additionally, this provides another boost to the Palmetto State’s manufacturing renaissance. Our automotive-related industries continue to thrive, grow and create new jobs,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.