Among South Carolina’s Manufacturing EliteBridgestone Firestone Aiken County receives top award
GRANITEVILLE, S.C. (May 17, 2006) - The good news keeps coming for Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC’s (BFNT) Aiken County, S.C., plant.
The BFNT facility received the South Carolina Silver Crescent Award for Manufacturing Excellence in the large manufacturer category. The award was announced today at the annual Salute to Manufacturing Luncheon, which is held each spring in conjunction with the Advanced Manufacturing & Productivity Exposition and Conference in Greenville.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award,” said Plant Manager Mike Rose. “Our teammates’ dedication and character demonstrate the values and commitment it takes to be recognized by notable organizations like the Silver Crescent Foundation.”
The South Carolina Silver Crescent Award for Manufacturing Excellence was established in 2002 to recognize outstanding manufacturers in the state based on their economic impact, commitment to the workforce, and involvement and contributions to their communities. The honor is awarded each year to one manufacturer in each of three categories: small (up to 100 employees), medium (101-499 employees) and large (500 or more employees).
“We congratulate Bridgestone Firestone on its commitment to excellence and service to the people of South Carolina,” said Tony Smith, president, Silver Crescent Foundation. “Bridgestone Firestone truly exemplifies the best in manufacturing.”
Rose added: “We’re proud to be one of the many great companies that were considered for this award. The high caliber of nominees speaks well for the manufacturing sector in South Carolina.”
The Aiken County facility has also received numerous other accolades, including:
- Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce “Greater Good Award” in 2005
- Rubber Manufacturers Association’s Safety and Health Excellence Award for 2003
- 2003 Manufacturer of the Year, Large Employer Category, South Carolina Chamber
of Commerce - Industry Week’s Top Ten Best Plants Award for 2003
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Voluntary Protection Program Star
Site (earned in 2002) - 2002 South Carolina Governor’s Quality Award
- 2002 Shingo Prize for Excellence in Manufacturing
BFNT’s Aiken County plant began operations in 1999 and produces radial passenger and light truck tires. The plant employs about 920 teammates. The company has invested $477 million in the facility, including a $17 million expansion currently underway, which will provide an additional 36 jobs. In 2005, The Bridgestone Firestone Trust Fund contributed more than $159,000 to local organizations through the Aiken County facility.
About Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC:
Nashville-based Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC is a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas Holding, Inc., whose parent company, Bridgestone Corporation, is the world's largest tire and rubber company. BFNT develops, manufactures and markets Bridgestone, Firestone and associate brand tires. The company is focused on wholesale and original equipment markets, supplying passenger, light truck, commercial vehicle, off-road, motorcycle, agricultural and other tires to its customers in North America.