Tire maker 'encouraged' by talks with USWA

NEW YORK (April 30)-Goodyear is "encouraged by the language of the dialogue" going on between its negotiators and the United Steelworkers of America regarding a new labor contract, but declined to make specific predictions regarding their resolution, company executives told financial analysts in New York today. "We've been more open with information than ever before," said Jon Rich, president of Goodyear North American Tire, "and this is leading to improved joint understanding conceptually. I'm confident, cautiously optimistic." The firm has not stockpiled tires in anticipation of work stoppages, but does have contingency plans in place for key accounts.