Michelin Nova Scotia plant revamp complete

Pictou, Nova Scotia – Michelin North America (Canada) Inc. has completed the phase-out of nearly all tire production at its plant in Pictou County, as outlined by the company in March 2014.

The plant, opened in 1971, continues as an integral part of Michelin Canada’s operations, the firm said, as the site of major rubber mixing operations, a high-performance tire production line, a membrane production and as home to the company’s corporate administrative offices.

Michelin said in March 2014 it was phasing out all but high-performance tire product at the site because of a continuing shift in the North American car tire market to larger size tires and the limits of the existing plant.

Michelin did not elaborate on what lines or sizes of tires are still being produced nor the plant’s reduced capacity.

At that time, Michelin targeted 500 positions for elimination. Of those affected, Michelin said more than 200 opted to retire, about 100 chose to relocate to other Michelin operations in Nova Scotia and the rest opted for severance packages to take on new positions elsewhere or to return to school.

The last phase of this draw-down was completed this on 1 July, leaving roughly 600 employed at the Pictou plant.