Michelin may expand retread activity in UK

ERJ staff report (DS)

Stoke-on-Trent, UK -- Michelin has agreed to investigate a proposal to invest over £20 million over a five-year period in the Remix truck tyre retreading operation at its plant in Stoke-on-trent, UK. It is likely the decision will go forward after being on hold for 12 months due to the economic crisis. The company said the decision would safeguarde the long term future of the Stoke site. Michelin has now authorised further investment for developing the project design study, to be completed during 2010, with an anticipated project implementation period of several years.

In addition, the company has successfully applied for and accepted Government grant aid of up to £3.9 million towards the funding of modernisation from the Department for Business Innovation and Skills.

In a statement, Michelin said the new facilities will involve high specification manufacturing equipment to increase productivity and provide improved working conditions. The investment will also significantly reduce solvent emissions, with the plant becoming a benchmark facility for the retreading industry worldwide.