Bridgestone/Firestone mulls closing 2 Mexican tire plants

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 11)—Bridgestone/Firestone Inc. is considering closing its two tire plants in Mexico unless it gets wage and benefit concessions from unions at those operations. "A wage reduction measure is necessary to remain competitive in this market" a Bridgestone/Firestone spokesman said. "BFS wants to remain competitive, but closing the plant if concessions are not made may be the only option." Contrary to published reports about a settlement that appeared in Mexico over the weekend of June 9-10, the firm continues to negotiate with unions representing workers at the Cuernavaca radial passenger car and light truck tire plant and Mexico City bias-ply light and medium truck tire facility. The company said it is paying workers 40 to 50 percent more than the average wage for this industry. Bridgestone/Firestone employs 691 at its 21-year-old Cuernavaca plant, and 364 at its 43-year-old factory in Mexico City. The former is rated at 6,700 units a day, while the latter can produce 2,200 units daily, according to company data.