Michelin Celebrates 50 Years in Greenville

"Today, we celebrate those generations who made Michelin what it has become: a proud South Carolina citizen," Garcin said.

For the City of Greenville, the celebration marked two anniversaries. Not only did Michelin bring operations to South Carolina 50 years ago, but it also moved its North American corporate headquarters from Lake Success, NY, to Greenville in 1985. Both events were watershed moments for the city's development.

"Michelin bringing new industry to the area was a seismic event in Greenville," said Mayor White. "At the time, industry was all about textiles. Michelin changed manufacturing in the Upstate by diversifying its industry. Then, when Michelin's corporate headquarters moved to Greenville, everything else changed as well."

In addition to its economic impact, White noted the company's commitment to the local community through support of various public education programs, as well as its role as a major corporate sponsor of projects like Unity Park.

"For the last 50 years, Michelin has been a driving force in our state, creating good jobs, modernizing our economy, and helping to build our automotive industry into the powerhouse it is today," said McMaster. "We are grateful for their contributions and look forward to continuing our great partnership for years to come."

According to an economic impact report marking the anniversary, the University of South Carolina's Darla Moore School of Business found that Michelin North America has had a $266 billion cumulative total economic impact since locating in the state. The company supports more than 8,000 jobs in the Upstate and over 23,000 jobs at 34 facilities across the US and Canada.

The study also found Michelin remains a top contributor to South Carolina's knowledge economy through its research, marketing, sales and manufacturing activities.