In an effort to expand its distribution in North America, Finland-based Nokian Tyres is opening its first distribution center in Canada, located near Montreal, Quebec, in September.
“Expanding our distribution network, especially in Canada, is an important step as we increase operations throughout North America,” said Tommi Heinonen, president of Nokian Tyres North America. “We will continue to grow our footprint and product offerings as we move forward.”
Located outside of Montreal in the city of Longueuil, the 130,000-square-foot facility is Nokian’s sixth distribution center in North America.
The facility can store up to 200,000 tires and will initially receive about 20 shipments per week with distribution set to begin in September, Nokian said. The distribution center will service the local Quebec market, as well as across Canada and the United States. Nokian has been experiencing strong year-over-year growth in Canada and the U.S. and recently increased its Albany, N.Y., warehouse capacity by 150%, the tiremaker said.
“This new location will increase our capacity and efficiency in North America and shows our commitment to Quebec, one of our largest and most important markets,” Heinonen said. “As we continue to grow the Nokian Tyre brand, it is vital that we maintain strong distribution capabilities so our products are available to our customers wherever they are located.”
The facility will be managed by Xpedient Logistics, a third party logistics organization that specializes in tire warehousing and supply chain coordination across Canada and the U.S., Nokian adds.