Employees of Ardmore’s Michelin plant were informed Thursday that the site will be closing.
Michelin says they are gradually winding down production with the goal of completely closing by the end of 2025, or sooner. However, rubber-mixing operations are expected to continue at the Ardmore plant.
Approximately 1,400 people will be impacted by this production shift, according to Michelin. Michelin says specifics will be discussed with employees in the next few weeks.
“The Ardmore factory is not equipped to deliver tires at competitive costs,” Michelin said on their website. “Continuing investments to modernize the Ardmore plant would negatively impact other U.S. sites in the network.”
According to their website, the first wave of staffing reductions will happen in mid-2024 as they gradually lower operations. Michelin says they plan to continue reducing staff through 2025.
Governor Kevin Stitt released a statement following the news of the site’s closure:
“It’s definitely disappointing to hear that Michelin is leaving Ardmore. They’ve been a mainstay in southern Oklahoma for years. Events like this illustrate why it’s important to be the most business friendly state. Business is constantly changing, but Ardmore is great location with a great workforce, and I have no doubt we will attract more businesses. I know Oklahomans will do what we always do – lend a hand to their neighbor as these folks transition to the next chapter. I’m working with Lt. Gov. Pinnell and the Department of Commerce to make sure those impacted have access to available programs so they land on their feet.”
