BALLYMENA, Northern Ireland (April 18, 2008) — Michelin is spending almost $28 million to increase automation at its Ballymena truck tire factory, according to a Northern Ireland government official.
Michelin didn't comment on the announcement made by Northern Ireland Economy Minister Nigel Dodds.
A press release by Invest Northern Ireland stated the project involves installing the latest automated production lines and associated training. The INI, supported by the European Union's European Regional Development Fund, will contribute about $5 million toward the project.
Dodds said the investment will enable Michelin to maximize production efficiency by introducing state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment, as well as a targeted training program.
The Ballymena plant opened in 1969. It employs 1,100 and has a daily production capacity of about 4,000 truck tires, most of which are exported to North America.