Report: Michelin Eying Lower End of U.S. Market

According to a Nov. 22 Dow Jones report, Groupe Michelin plans to make inroads “into the lower end of the U.S. tire market,” a segment the tiremaker sees as being covered by Chinese tiremakers. Michelin CEO Michel Rollier

Michelin CEO Michel Rollier told a meeting of European auto executives that it is “considering going it alone after an initial plan to enter the segment with then partner Hankook Tire Co. fell through,” the report said.

Rollier said that 50% of the U.S. tire market is occupied by Tier 2 or Tier 3 brands “that don’t offer the quality of products made by market leaders Michelin, Bridgestone and Goodyear,” the report said.

"This isn’t a sector that we can ignore," Rollier said. "I think we’ll invest in this activity by ourselves.”

Yet, Rollier offered no information on how the tiremaker planned to “invest in this activity.”

Discount Tire & Service Centers has a new sponsorship deal with the Los Angeles Angels for the 2024 season. Discount Tire said this partnership will not only benefit its customers with season-long promotions and giveaways but will also support local non-profits.

"We're thrilled to launch this strategic partnership with the Los Angeles Angels," said Sergio Andonian, president, Discount Tire & Service Centers. "As neighbors, from Anaheim, we are dedicated to serving our local communities and providing quality tire & automotive service at the most competitive prices. Together, we look forward to making a positive and lasting impact in the communities. Add baseball to the mix, and with this winning combination, the possibilities are endless."