Continental consolidates textile reinforcement units

Fairlawn, Ohio - ContiTech AG has invested more than $9 million (€7.6 million) in its textile reinforcement business and streamlined its operations in Georgia.

At the end of 2018, ContiTech will relocate operations at its Porterdale, Georgia, facility to its Aldora Mills facility, located about 45 miles south in Barnesville, Georgia, according to a company release. The Porterdale facility produces single end yarns for technical reinforcement applications that adhere to specific rubber compounds, such as hoses and tires.

Employees will be given the opportunity to transfer to the Barnesville location, or if eligible, elect to retire. The Barnesville location, which currently employs about 200 people, will grow by an additional 106 employees, including those who transfer from Porterdale, as well as new hires.

During the consolidation of the two facilities, Continental will invest more than $9 million to modernise equipment and improve efficiencies and production at the Barnesville location.

The Aldora Mills facility opened in 1888 as a cotton mill. The facility began producing tire cord in the early 1920s, and was purchased by Continental in 1986. It currently produces tire cord fabric for Continental and General brand passenger and light truck tires.

The consolidation allows the company to maximise efficiencies and optimise its manufacturing footprint, said Jim Hill, president of Continental's ContiTech North America operations. The investment ensures the company's continuity in its business as well as extends its long-term viability.

"We are committed to remaining in yarn and fabric production to support our North American manufacturing operations for our customers and associates," Hill said.