Cooper to hike capacity, go to 7-day production at Arkansas factory

ERJ staff report (TB)

FINDLAY, Ohio (Oct. 5, 2009) - Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. will increase capacity at its Texarkana, Ark., tyre factory, moving to a seven-days-a-week operation starting Jan. 1.

Cooper said moving the plant to a 24-hour schedule is in response to growing market demand for its passenger and light truck tyres. The new schedule will require about 200 additional employees to support the increased volume.

The shift in production will be accomplished over several months in 2010. The facility produces passenger and light truck tyres for the replacement markets.

“We are excited about this opportunity to enhance our production capabilities,” said John Bodart, Cooper's vice president of manufacturing for its North American Tire Division.

The Findlay tyre maker has also announced expansion plans at its Tupelo, Miss., plant and the continual ramp-up of its operations in Mexico. The company's Findlay plant also is expected to increase production volumes.

“Through a focus on continuous improvement, we are always in a process of improving our capabilities,” Mr. Bodart said. “This allows us to deliver high quality, cost competitive products to our customers and consumers. These moves are logical steps that align with our strategic goals.”

From Tire Business (A Crain publication)