Michelin North America announced Thursday that it will permanently wind down operations at its BFGoodrich tire manufacturing plant in Tuscaloosa, a decision expected to impact approximately 1,200 employees and mark the end of one of West Alabama’s largest manufacturing facilities.
The company said production at the plant will begin winding down in phases starting in early 2027, with operations scheduled to end by the close of 2028. Nearly all BFGoodrich tire production will be consolidated at Michelin’s facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana, as part of a broader effort to streamline the company’s North American manufacturing network.
Michelin cited underutilized production capacity at both facilities and increased competition in the off-road and recreation tire market as key reasons for the decision. Company officials said the Fort Wayne plant is better positioned to absorb production and meet future demand while improving operational efficiency.
The Tuscaloosa facility, which has operated for decades and manufactures passenger and light truck tires along with semi-finished rubber materials, currently employs about 1,450 workers. Michelin said roughly 1,200 positions are expected to be affected by the closure, although layoffs are not expected for several months while transition plans are finalized.
Operations at the plant were temporarily halted Thursday so company leaders could meet directly with employees. Production is expected to resume Monday while discussions continue with union representatives regarding severance packages and other transition benefits.
The announcement represents a significant economic blow to Tuscaloosa, where the BFGoodrich plant has long been a major employer and contributor to the local manufacturing sector. Michelin said it plans to work with local leaders and economic development officials to explore future uses for the property after manufacturing operations cease.
The closure is expected to cost Michelin approximately about $250 million) in one-time expenses recorded during its 2026 financial results, though the company did not specify how much of that amount is directly related to the Tuscaloosa shutdown.
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