Nashville-Based Bridgestone Americas Shuts Down La Vergne Tire Plant, Displacing Hundreds

Nashville-based Bridgestone Americas has announced plans to shutter its tire plant in La Vergne, Tennessee, by July 31, 2025, resulting in the loss of 700 jobs in Rutherford County. The decision is part of the company's strategy to "optimize its business footprint" and enhance competitiveness in the automotive parts industry.

Bridgestone has been undergoing a comprehensive business optimization initiative, including its Nashville headquarters. The workforce reductions will impact corporate, sales, and operations teams across the U.S. Additionally, the company is scaling back capacity at its Des Moines tire plant.

The La Vergne plant, which opened in 1972, has served as Bridgestone's first U.S. factory for over five decades. In recent years, the workforce has declined by approximately 300 employees.

Financial Challenges and Plant Closure

Bridgestone CEO Scott Damon acknowledged the difficult nature of this decision, citing its impact on employees and their families while emphasizing the need to optimize the company's business footprint.

During a recent earnings presentation, Bridgestone reported revenue growth but a profit decline in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2024 compared to the previous year, both globally and in the U.S.

This closure marks Tennessee's third major layoff of the year, following cuts at Dollar General and Perdue Farms. Nissan has also announced global layoffs, but the impact on Tennessee workers is yet to be determined.

Local Impact and Job Market

Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell expressed concern over the layoffs and noted ongoing discussions with Bridgestone executives to assess the local impact. With manufacturing accounting for around 7% of the Nashville workforce, the industry has experienced a 0.5% decline in recent years and historically exhibits higher unemployment rates.

The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce is actively working with Bridgestone to assist displaced employees and market the La Vergne plant for a potential new occupant. The city has also welcomed new businesses in recent years, including Icee, Amazon, BJ's Wholesale Club, and others.

Despite these efforts, Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr recognizes the significant impact of Bridgestone's closure on La Vergne. The Nashville and Rutherford County Chambers of Commerce, along with community partners, are collaborating to support affected workers with resources and job placement opportunities.