MNA Starts Effort to Aid Kitchener Employees, Region

(Akron/Tire Review) Nearly two months after announcing that it was closing its passenger tire plant in Kitchener, Ontario, Michelin North America (MNA) announced an effort to help create job opportunities for the 1,100 displaced workers and the entire region.

By Tire Review Staff
March 29, 2006

MNA created Michelin Development, a subsidiary company that will “focus on new job creation by offering low-interest loans to qualified entrepreneurs and start-up companies,” MNA said. “The initiative aims to create hundreds of new jobs over the next six years, primarily focusing on the manufacturing sector.”

Based on a similar Michelin program in Europe, Michelin Development will also aid new and existing businesses “by providing access to Michelin’s industrial expertise.”

Long-time MNA executive John Tully was named director of Michelin Development, and will relocate to Kitchener from Greenville, S.C. to establish the subsidiary.

Citing overcapacity in its broadline products, MNA announced on Feb. 2 that it would close the Kitchener plant in July.

Ohio Tire & Auto Association Donates $3K at Annual Golf Outing

OTAA’s annual golf event raised funds for AACF while connecting Ohio Tire & Automotive Association members.

By Christian Hinton
September 20, 2023

The Ohio Tire and Automotive Association (OTAA) held its annual golf outing this year at The Country Club at Muirfield Village, close to the renowned Muirfield Village Golf Club, home of the PGA Tour's Memorial Tournament.

OTAA leadership welcomed around 116 OTAA members and thanked sponsors before teeing off and, following golf, attendees gathered for dinner, drinks and donations. OTAA leadership, including new President Jon Boyd, tire business manager, from Boyd’s Tire and Service, presented a $3,000 donation to the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF). OTAA also presented the William Floyd Distinguished Service Award to Tom White, owner of the six-store Tire Source chain based in Canton. White received the honor in recognition of his long-term dedication and contributions to the OTAA board and the broader Ohio tire industry.