Conti Moving R&D to Mt. Vernon

Continental Tire North America is moving its research and development department from its Charlotte, North Carolina to its non-unionised plant in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. Construction company Ray Black and Sons is currently completing the 700 square metre addition to the plant.

The facility at Mt. Vernon is now Conti’s sole US tyre production centre following the closure of several other plants. Mt. Vernon workers have accepted some wage reductions in exchange for a promise of increased production and an upgrade of facilities. The plant has recently been awarded “Q1” Quality Certification by Ford and recognition of improved quality from Nissan.