Michelin looks to gradually resume industrial activity 

Clermont-Ferrand, France - Michelin Group has announced that it is planning a ‘gradual’ ramp up of its manufacturing operations following production halts introduced in response to Covid-19 pandemic. 

“Today, the group believes the time has come to gradually resume activity while implementing reinforced health measures adapted to each site,” said Michelin in a 21 April statement.

The group, which has been heavily involved in the production of personal protection equipment for medical personnel during the pandemic, is now focusing its attention on “serving its markets” and “contributing to reopening the economy”.

Michelin is prioritising the reopening of its agricultural tire production plant in Troyes, France, whose activities, it says, contribute to the farming industry on a daily basis. 

Other group plants that manufacture tires for public service vehicles such as ambulances, fire fighters, police and army and transport fleets are in a similar position, the group added. 

In addition, Michelin said it remained committed to its OE customers “so they, too, can continue to operate.” 

“All sites must be capable of supplying their staff with masks, hand sanitiser, soap and medical thermometers while regularly disinfecting the premises and work spaces,” said Michelin CEO Florent Menegaux commenting on the decision.

According to Menegaux, Michelin has also successfully re-launched its activities in China.