François Michelin Inducted into TIA Hall of Fame

An honour that carries particular weight in North America is the ‘hall of fame’, a distinction for those who achieve lifelong excellence in their specific field, whether it be sports, music – or tyres. This year one of the historical contributor inductees into the Tire Industry Association (TIA) Hall of Fame was Mr. François Michelin, former managing partner of the Michelin Group. In November ceremonies held during the annual TIA “Breakfast with the President,” Mr. Michelin was recognised for his accomplishments and contributions to the tyre industry, including his support for the advancement of radial tyre technology.

Accompanied by one of his sons, Damien, Mr. Michelin accepted his award in front of the TIA organisation members who welcomed him with enthusiastic applause and a standing ovation. As he took the stage, Peggy Fisher, outgoing TIA president, spoke of the former managing partner: “When I first met Mr. Michelin, I was taken by the kindness and respect he gave me.”

“My biggest joy is to have enabled the men and women of the Michelin Group to become what they are, to have grown to the best of their abilities,” said Mr. Michelin. “I believe that’s the core of our business.” He then shared some of his keys to success over the years: “What has impressed me the most is the responsibility we carry for one another in the industry. I have always been amazed by the capacity of people to adapt to change and progress within their markets.”

François Michelin became the CEO of the Michelin Group in 1959, and under his leadership the company enjoyed substantial growth and expansion throughout the world. As a supporter of the advancement of the radial tyre, Mr. Michelin led the company’s efforts in applying the innovative technology to truck tyres in 1952, earthmovers in 1959 and aircraft in 1981.

Mr. Michelin was inducted into the TIA Hall of Fame along with four other individuals:

Larry Morgan, chairman, Morgan Tire & Auto Inc.; Terry Westhafer, president and general manager, Central Tire Corporation; Harold Herzlich, president of Herzlich Consulting, LLC (Friend of the Industry Award); Joe Esco, founder of Esco Tire Company, Oklahoma City, Oklohoma (Historical Contributor).