The Shadow
SALEM, Va. (VR) – Salem officials reacted with concern following Yokohama’s announcement of layoffs and the potential closure of its Salem tire plant, a facility that has been part of the city’s industrial base for nearly six decades.
Mayor Renee Turk said the plant and its workforce have played a major role in shaping Salem, noting that nearly every family in the city has a connection to the facility. Turk said many Yokohama employees have also been active in neighborhoods, community organizations and local schools. While calling the news painful, Turk said manufacturing facilities across Virginia and the nation have faced increasing challenges in recent years, making the announcement “not entirely unexpected” as companies adapt operations and staffing to changing conditions.
City Manager Chris Dorsey said he was saddened by the news and expressed concern for the employees and families affected. Dorsey said the impact will extend beyond city finances, calling it a personal blow to a community where generations of workers have depended on the plant for employment.
Economic Development Director Tommy Miller said the city is still learning details about the scope and timeline of Yokohama’s decision. Miller said the city’s priority is supporting impacted employees and families and connecting them with available workforce services and support programs in coordination with regional and state partners. Miller added that the city values Yokohama’s long-standing presence in Salem and remains committed to open communication with the company.
The Salem plant was originally built by Mohawk Rubber Company, with construction beginning in 1967 and operations starting in June 1968. Located on a 62-acre site, the facility produced car and truck tires and underwent several expansions in the 1970s and again in 1983. Yokohama Tire acquired the plant in 1989 and expanded production in 1994, employing approximately 1,050 workers at its peak in 1996. The plant produced its 100-millionth tire in 2023.
We have reached out to Yokohama, they have no responded as of press time.
