News Summary
On September 17, 2024, Michelin North America celebrated its 50th anniversary in Greenville, South Carolina, announcing a remarkable $266 billion cumulative economic impact since 1974. This significant achievement was revealed in a report from the University of South Carolina. Michelin’s operation has evolved from a textile-focused economy to one dominated by advanced manufacturing, employing around 14,000 individuals annually. The celebration highlighted Michelin’s crucial role in job creation and innovation, as well as the positive influence it has had on the local economy, enhancing Greenville’s position as a manufacturing hub.
Greenville Celebrates Michelin’s Milestone with $266 Billion Impact
In the heart of Greenville, South Carolina, an exciting celebration took place on September 17, 2024. Michelin North America Inc. proudly marked its 50th anniversary in the state with some remarkable news: the company has generated a staggering $266 billion in cumulative economic impact since settling in the area in 1974. This fascinating revelation came from a fresh economic impact report shared by the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business.
Transforming South Carolina’s Economy
Half a century ago, when Michelin rolled into South Carolina, the region’s economy was heavily focused on textiles. Fast forward to today, and the landscape has thoroughly transformed, with advanced manufacturing now at the forefront. The journey began in 1973 when construction kicked off for Michelin’s first facility, a materials plant, which opened its doors near Pendleton in 1974. By 1975, Greenville was producing its very first finished tire, setting the stage for a lasting legacy.
Fast forward to now, Michelin operates an impressive 15 plants across South Carolina, providing jobs for an average of about 14,000 people every year since 1975. The ripple effect of Michelin’s presence in the Palmetto State is nothing short of impressive. The economic impact study revealed that Michelin’s activities contribute a remarkable $8.2 billion annually to the state’s economy, translating to a total annual labor income of $2 billion tied directly to its workforce.
Job Creation and Employment Boost
Michelin’s presence has resulted in approximately 24,915 jobs being created each year, showing just how vital this corporation is to the state. With an employment multiplier of 2.6, the company generates an additional 16 jobs elsewhere in South Carolina for every 10 jobs it creates. This multiplier effect serves as a fantastic testament to Michelin’s significance. Jobs directly or indirectly linked to Michelin also boast an average income that’s a whopping 45% higher than the state’s average income—talk about a boost to local families!
Influential Figures Celebrate Together
The celebration not only recognized Michelin’s economic achievements but also included esteemed figures such as South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and local economic leaders. The room was filled with optimism as they acknowledged how Michelin has positively influenced the automotive sector and provided high-quality jobs to the community. The outgoing president and CEO of Michelin North America introduced his successor, ushering in a new era for the company in South Carolina.
Continued Innovation and Expansion
Michelin’s journey is also a story of innovation. Known for its cutting-edge developments, the company has introduced remarkable products like the Michelin X Tweel airless tire and even contributed to the Lunar Rover tire! With productivity levels 28% higher than other tire manufacturers in the state, Michelin stands out as a leader in the industry.
Since moving its corporate headquarters from Lake Success, New York, to Greenville in 1985, Michelin has only expanded its operations. Highlights include a state-of-the-art mining tire facility that opened in Lexington in 1998 and another jaw-dropping facility that launched in Anderson in 2013. This ongoing investment in the state underscores Michelin’s confidence in the local workforce and available resources.
Looking Ahead
As it stands today, Michelin North America employs around 23,000 individuals across 30 production facilities throughout the United States, with nearly 10,000 of those jobs located in South Carolina. This solid foundation shows that Michelin continues to play a pivotal role in not just the local economy but also in shaping the future of advanced manufacturing in the region.
As Greenville and South Carolina celebrate 50 years of partnership with Michelin, the future looks bright. Here’s to many more years of innovation, job creation, and economic growth!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WBtv: Major Tire Manufacturer Planning $159 Million Facility Expansion in South Carolina
- Michelin Media: Michelin’s Economic Impact in South Carolina
- Upstate Business Journal: Q&A with Matthew Cabe, President and CEO of Michelin North America
- GSABusiness: How Michelin Brought $266B Impact to South Carolina
- Workers Compensation: South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Case Law Update: Brailey v. Michelin North America
- Wikipedia: Michelin
- Google Search: Michelin South Carolina
- Google Scholar: Michelin North America
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michelin
- Google News: Michelin Celebration South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
