NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 1, 2024) ― Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (Bridgestone), a subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a company evolving to become a global leader in sustainable mobility solutions, celebrated 50 years of operation at its passenger and light truck tire manufacturing plant in Wilson, North Carolina with an event held on March 1. The Wilson Tire Plant began manufacturing tires in 1974 and continues to play a vital role in the local community as one of the largest industrial employers in Wilson County with 1,900 employees.
“The Wilson Tire Plant team continues to be focused on our culture, craftsmanship and commitment to the community in order to deliver great products to our customers. This historic milestone is possible thanks to the dedication of so many who have invested in our plant – first and foremost, our teammates and retirees, as well as the ongoing support of our customers and the local community,” said Lino Beltrami, Plant Manager, Wilson Tire Plant, Bridgestone Americas.
During its 50 years in operation, the Wilson Tire Plant has received several certifications and awards, including the Rising Star in the North Carolina Department of Labor’s Carolina Star Program, which recognizes employers and workers for implementing effective safety and health management systems and maintaining low injury and illness rates. In 2023, the facility earned the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS recognition for its transparency and traceability of sustainable raw materials*. The Wilson Tire Plant team also has been designated as a North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Environmental Steward.
“As we celebrate 50 years of manufacturing, we are thankful for our dedicated team, who is directly responsible for delivering the passenger and light truck tires our customers know and expect from Bridgestone,” said Barry Owens, Senior Vice President, Bridgestone Americas Manufacturing Group. “The impact our Wilson teammates make through the products they manufacture is at the core of our business, and we couldn’t do it without this team’s drive to continuously improve our operation. We also thank the Wilson community and state of North Carolina for their ongoing support.”
The Wilson Tire Plant and its teammates embody the Bridgestone E8 Commitment by playing an active role in the Wilson community through the ongoing support of the United Way Tar River Region, Wilson Community College, The Arts Council of Wilson, the Independent College Fund, Diversified Opportunities and Imagination Station.
“Our Wilson Plant team plays a crucial role in our ability to deliver products of the highest quality to our customers who want the very best tires for their cars and light trucks,” said Riccardo Cichi, President and Chief Sales Officer, Bridgestone Americas. “I congratulate the Wilson team – past and present - on achieving this major milestone in the history of the plant.”
To learn more about the Wilson Tire Plant, visit BridgestoneAmericas.com.
* For more information about ISCC, please visit: All Certificates – ISCC System (iscc-system.org).
