Thursday morning, Michelin marked the opening of a new manufacturing facility in Anderson County. The opening of the facility, Michelin’s ninth in the state, was attended by Michelin executives and state officials, and comes just 17 months after ground was broken.
The facility, known as “US10,” will manufacture large tires for earthmoving equipment.
Michelin, South Carolina’s largest manufacturing employer, announced a $750 million investment in April 2012 to construct the 800,000-square foot-facility and expand its existing Earthmover manufacturing plant in Lexington, S.C. Both projects have created hundreds of jobs and expect an additional several hundred in future years, according to a statement from the company.
“Michelin continues to make investments in multiple countries around the world that will position our company for long-term growth,” said Pete Selleck, Michelin North America chairman and president. “It’s a source of pride to know that what we’re doing right here in South Carolina plays such an important role in our company’s global business strategy. It’s a testament to the business-friendly climate in the state and the dedicated, productive and skilled workforce that serves as the engine behind our success.”
“The opening of this new Michelin plant once again shows South Carolina remains a global player when it comes to manufacturing,” said U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham. “But it also underscores the critical importance to our state’s economy of deepening Charleston Harbor, as 80 percent of the products made here will be exported overseas. If we want to continue growing our economy and expanding our workforce, we need Charleston Harbor deepened.”
