Sumitomo Rubber Announces Closure of Tonawanda Plant, Affecting Over 1,500 Employees

On Thursday, November 7, 2024, Sumitomo Rubber USA announced the closure of its tire manufacturing facility in Tonawanda, New York. This decision will impact over 1,500 employees who work at the plant.

The announcement was made via the company’s website, marking a significant blow to the local workforce and economy in Western New York. The Tonawanda facility has been a major employer in the region for many years, and its closure is expected to have far-reaching consequences for the community.

The reasons behind the closure have not been detailed in the initial announcement, but it is part of a broader trend of industrial adjustments and restructuring within the automotive and tire manufacturing sectors. The closure will bring an end to tire production at the site, which has been a key part of Sumitomo Rubber’s operations in the United States.

Local authorities and community leaders are likely to be involved in discussions to support the affected employees and explore potential future uses for the facility. The economic impact of such a large-scale job loss will be a focus of concern and action in the coming weeks and months).