Goodyear to close Philippsburg operation, opening two new tyre distribution centres

Goodyear EMEA is opening two new distribution centres in Cheb, the Czech Republic, and Amiens, France. The announcement coincides with the news that Goodyear is closing its Philippsburg, Germany operation. Goodyear announced that it was closing its Philippsburg, Germany tyre factory in 2016 and production ceased in 2017. Since then, it has been run as a tyre distribution centre in conjunction with a third-party logistics firm. Tyres & Accessories understands that the Philipsburg tyre distribution operation is no longer as efficient and effective as Goodyear had hoped. The company is now consulting with employees regarding the future of 15 jobs in Philippsburg.

The opening of the two new distribution centres is said to be about “getting closer to the market” and improving customer service. At the same time, company representatives point out that the optimised logistics associated with the two new distribution centre locations in the Czech Republic and France will result in reduced delivery mileage and therefore lower the tyre manufacturer’s carbon footprint.

The new distribution centres, which will focus on passenger car tyre or “consumer” products, will not be Goodyear-owned locations, but will rather be operated in conjunction with those in the third-party logistics business. The identity of the logistics partner or partners has not been revealed as Goodyear is currently in the midst of a tender process.

Goodyear is not revealing details of the costs associated with either the cost of closing the Philippsburg operation or any investment associated with the establishment of the new distribution centres in the Czech Republic and France at this time.

Summing up the news, a Goodyear EMEA spokesperson gave Tyres & Accessories the following statement: “Goodyear announced changes to its European warehousing operations to be closer to the markets it serves, which will improve customer service levels and lower carbon emissions by reducing transportation mileage.

“The changes include establishing two new regional distribution centres in Cheb, the Czech Republic, and Amiens, France. They will replace the existing warehouse in Philippsburg, Germany, where operations will be discontinued in 2024.”