The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company announced on Monday that it will invest over CAD 575 million to expand and modernise its Napanee, Ontario, plant. This initiative aims to meet the evolving needs of the electric vehicle (EV) and all-terrain markets.
The project, supported by the Government of Canada, Government of Ontario, and local municipalities, will create 200 new skilled manufacturing jobs in Eastern Ontario. The facility, recognised as a net-zero waste to landfill site, will also integrate energy-efficient and carbon emission-reducing solutions. Completion is expected by mid-2027.
Goodyear is partnering with multiple levels of government for this initiative. The Government of Canada will contribute CAD 44.3 million through its Strategic Innovation Fund, while the Government of Ontario will provide CAD 20 million via Invest Ontario. Local municipalities including the Town of Greater Napanee, the Township of Stone Mills, and the County of Lennox and Addington will offer approximately CAD 2 million in incentives over four years through an Industrial Community Improvement Plan.
“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.”
The expansion project, which commenced earlier this year, will involve installing equipment and technology. This development will position the Napanee plant as a leading facility in tire production, capable of meeting future global market demands. This investment aligns with Goodyear’s broader strategy for future growth and shareholder value enhancement.
“Companies from across the world are choosing Canada. Today’s announcement that Goodyear is modernising 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,” Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, said.
“Goodyear Canada’s investment is another significant boost to Ontario’s growing electric vehicle sector, building on the CAD 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,” Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, said.
“Today’s announcement is another great step toward the modernisation 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 modernise 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,” François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, said.
“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,” Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotions, International Trade and Economic Development, said.
“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,” Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, said.
“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,” Terry Richardson, Mayor of Greater Napanee, said.
“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, said.
“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, said.
