Against the back of market changes, French tyre maker Michelin Group plans to close its tyre manufacturing plant in Querétaro, Mexico, by the end of 2025, citing shifts in the passenger car and light truck tyre market as the primary driver behind the decision.
The tyre manufacturer said it would stop production at the facility, which currently produces fewer than 0.5 million BFGoodrich brand tyres annually for passenger cars and light trucks. The plant also operates a retreading belt production line for truck tyres.
The closure marks the latest example of automotive suppliers adjusting their manufacturing footprints as global vehicle demand patterns shift.
“It is a decision made as a last resort, driven by changes in the passenger car and light truck tyre market,” the company said in a statement.
Michelin said it remains “fully committed to Mexico” despite the plant closure. The company operates multiple facilities nationwide and continues to view the Mexican market as strategically important.
The Querétaro plant closure will affect approximately 480 employees, according to the company. Michelin said it would provide individual support to each worker, including financial severance packages, benefits, job search assistance, and external training opportunities to help employees develop new skills.
The company stated that it would also collaborate with local and state officials to provide additional support during the transition, including securing a fund for sustainable community development activities.