Yokohama Tire has announced that it will permanently close its Salem, Virginia, manufacturing plant on March 18, 2026. The facility, which has operated since the 1960s and became part of Yokohama following its acquisition of Mohawk Rubber Company in 1989, will cease production earlier than initially planned.
The decision follows a reduction in output earlier this year and negotiations with the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union (USW) Local 1023. Both sides agreed to expedite the closure, citing the expiration of certain product lifecycles and reduced demand for other items produced at the Salem plant.
Approximately 570 employees will be affected. Non-bargaining unit employees will receive layoff benefits under existing company policies, while USW-represented employees will receive benefits according to terms negotiated in the effects bargaining agreement. Yokohama and the union have described the arrangement as fair and equitable, though specific details have not been disclosed.
The company does not anticipate any disruptions to its tire supply as a result of the closure.
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