First new business to open on Dundee Michelin site

A Michelin site in Dundee aimed at addressing the global climate emergency has welcomed its first new tenant.

MEP Technologies LTD has been announced as the first business to take up residency at the Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc, built on the site of the tyre manufacturer’s former factory.

The MSIP is a joint venture between Michelin, Dundee City Council and Scottish Enterprise, aimed at drive growth and diversity in the Scottish economy while addressing the global climate emergency.

MEP Technologies Ltd will initially bring ten jobs to the Innovation Parc, with plans to create a further ten over the next two years.

Further tenants are anticipated within the next 12 months that could create an additional 200 jobs.

Michelin announced the closure of its Dundee factory in November 2018, with plans to transform the site into MSIP announced several months later.

To date nearly 800 former Michelin Dundee staff have found new employment, with 43 people still seeking new roles.

MSIP will inform all former Michelin Dundee employees of any new opportunities at the Innovation Parc, as they emerge.

Greig Coull, CEO of MSIP said: “Today’s announcement of our first tenant at MSIP is a big mark of progress for us, on what marks the two-year anniversary of the announcement to close the Michelin Dundee factory.

“Our first tenant is the first of many. I’m excited about today’s news, but also what the next 12 months will bring.”

Stuart Morrison, Managing Director of MEP Technologies Ltd said: “The parc is already attracting some really successful low carbon technology companies and some really innovative new technology companies too.

“I can’t endorse the initiative enough and praise the support of Michelin, Scottish Enterprise and Dundee City Council.”

Councillor John Alexander, leader of Dundee City Council, said: “There’s a real buzz around MSIP and its role in the sustainable and low carbon technologies which will not only help create jobs and prosperity here in Dundee, but also play a part in addressing the global climate emergency.

“Much has been achieved in the two years since the announcement of an end to tyre manufacturing at the site. We need to keep up the pace, and the key stakeholder groups that Linda Hannah and I will chair are committed to doing that.”

Economy Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “This is a significant day for Dundee and I would like to thank Michelin and everyone who has been involved since the closure announcement.

“Their hard work and determination has supported the workforce and community and the vast majority of employees have found further employment or training opportunities.”