By Michelle Price
Special to the UCBJ
NASHVILLE – Paolo Ferrari, CEO & president of Bridgestone Americas (Bridgestone), has announced plans to restart its Morrison commercial tire plant, as well as its other North American facilities, on April 13.
The over 1,000 employees at the Warren County plant have been furloughed for three weeks.
The company’s start-up plans reflect the performance trend in several key areas of its commercial and diversified products businesses not as severely affected by the current crisis.
In its announcement, Bridgestone said, “The well-being and safety of employees remains the most important priority for the company. To ensure the health and safety of employees, plants resuming operations will do so in alignment with the latest safety protocol guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).”
“The start-up of our North American commercial tire and diversified products operations will allow us to meet the increasing needs of businesses who are going above and beyond to provide essential services in our communities,” said Ferrari. “We are mindful of the need for Bridgestone to do its part in providing critical products and services to businesses and agencies doing so much to keep essential workers and goods moving.”
The company has sufficient supply of original equipment and consumer replacement product to meet customer demand but continues to align supply to current market demand. The company’s distribution centers, plant warehouses and logistics teams are continuing to fill orders.
The company is monitoring the coronavirus situation closely and adjusting response plans and operations as necessary to ensure the health and safety of its employees while also addressing the needs of customers and the market, according to a statement issued today.
The company took steps to limit the impact on employees, during the furlough period, including the continuation of employee healthcare and other benefits.
