Akron, Ohio, August 12, 2024 – The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company today announced that it is expanding and modernizing its Napanee, Ontario, plant to meet the evolving and diverse needs of the electric vehicle (EV) and all-terrain markets.  

The investment, which includes partnerships with the Government of Canada, Government of Ontario and local municipalities, will bring 200 new, highly skilled manufacturing jobs to Eastern Ontario. In addition, the facility, already recognized as a net-zero waste to landfill site, will integrate environmental solutions to increase its energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

“Today’s announcement reinforces our long-term commitment to Canada and enhances our agility and flexibility, positioning Goodyear to meet the evolving needs of our customers now and in the future,” said Mark Stewart, Chief Executive Officer and President. “We are appreciative to the federal, provincial and local governments for their support and to our Napanee associates for their dedication to building the next generation of tires.”  

Goodyear began construction on its expansion earlier this year, which it expects to complete by the middle of 2027.  The installation of new, state-of-the-art equipment and technology will enable the Napanee plant to become a leading producer, delivering products that meet the future needs of a growing and shifting global market.    

This latest investment is part of Goodyear’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a leader for future growth and drive shareholder value.

Multi-Level Public-Private Partnership 

Goodyear is investing more than $575 million CAD to modernize its Napanee facility, which includes building expansions, new equipment and capabilities. The facility will maintain and grow the full-time team by 200 positions, to more than 1,000.

The Government of Canada will invest $44.3 million CAD via its Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) to support Goodyear and Canada’s automotive manufacturing supply chain.  

The Government of Ontario, through Invest Ontario, will contribute $20 million CAD to support innovative technologies and skills training. In addition, the Town of Greater Napanee, the Township of Stone Mills and the County of Lennox and Addington will provide approximately $2 million CAD in incentives over four years through an Industrial Community Improvement Plan.

Partner Quotes

“Companies from across the world are choosing Canada. Today’s announcement that Goodyear is modernizing its Napanee plant will create manufacturing jobs, grow our EV industry and use modern technology to keep our air clean. It’s another vote of confidence in Canada’s auto sector workers.”

-- The Right Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

“Goodyear Canada’s investment is another significant boost to Ontario’s growing electric vehicle sector, building on the $43 billion that have been invested in the sector over the past four years. Across Ontario, we’re seeing major investments and new jobs created as we build out our end-to-end EV supply chain, connecting critical minerals in Northern Ontario to world-class manufacturing across the province. Companies are choosing Ontario because of our transportation infrastructure, our competitive business environment and our skilled workforce.”

-- The Hon. Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario

“Today’s announcement is another great step toward the modernization of Canada’s automotive sector. By partnering with Goodyear Canada, we’re driving Canada to the forefront of the clean economy. This investment represents a significant advancement toward innovation in tire technology, helping to modernize the industry. It will not only create high-quality jobs, but also generate substantial economic benefits for Ontarians, reinforcing our commitment to a strong and sustainable automotive sector.”

-- The Hon. François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“Today’s announcement highlights Canada’s growing and dynamic EV sector. This investment will generate high-quality jobs, boost our economy and continue to place the climate at the forefront of our economy. It is these investments in growth sectors that keep Canada as a trusted partner to international companies and allow us to remain a top destination for global investments.”

-- The Hon. Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotions, International Trade and Economic Development

“Boasting a wealth of critical minerals, a highly skilled workforce, and a thriving advanced manufacturing sector, Ontario has emerged as a North American leader in the production of electric vehicles with over $43 billion in new auto investments over the past four years. Goodyear’s investment in their Napanee production facility represents another essential link in our province’s growing and dynamic end-to-end EV supply chain. Thank you, Goodyear, for your continued commitment to Ontario’s talented auto sector workers.”

-- The Hon. Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade

“I am excited to see this announcement of a substantial investment in Goodyear Napanee. Goodyear Canada is Greater Napanee’s largest employer and has been an exemplary corporate partner in our region for over 35 years. They are an integral part of the growth and success of our community. This investment will ensure further growth for our region well into the future. On behalf of the Town of Greater Napanee, I would like to thank our federal and provincial partners for this investment in Goodyear Napanee and our community.”

-- His Worship Terry Richardson, Mayor of Greater Napanee

 “This is an exciting time for Goodyear and our municipalities; the expansion will result in a substantial increase in employment and ensures that Goodyear Napanee will continue to be a world-class tire production facility for years to come. We are proud to be home to Goodyear.”

-- John Wise, Reeve of Stone Mills Township

“Goodyear’s expansion is a significant achievement for both the province and the region. Invest Ontario collaborated closely with partners at all levels of government to support the company’s decision to invest in Ontario, a world-class jurisdiction. As a dedicated partner to investors, Invest Ontario is committed to accelerating their success by providing expertise and services specifically tailored to their needs.”

-- Michael Fedchyshyn, Interim CEO and VP, Strategies and Business Solutions, Invest Ontario

About The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs about 71,000 people and manufactures its products in 54 facilities in 21 countries around the world. Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, Ohio, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg, strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry. For more information about Goodyear and its products, go to www.goodyear.com/corporate.