Wilkie to take over former Michelin tyre factory as part of £50m investment

A major manufacturing company is set to invest £50m in a takeover of the former Michelin tyre factory in Dundee, creating hundreds of jobs.

The tyre factory site, which closed its doors in 2020, will be taken over by Wilkie as it moves its operations from Kirriemuir and Forfar.

The company said the decision to leave its historic Kirriemuir home was not “taken lightly” but that the location “no longer meets the demands of modern manufacturing”.

Wilkie will partner alongside the current shareholder, Scottish Enterprise, becoming the majority shareholder of MSIP.

The company said the new purpose-built site will be capable of housing advanced technologies and supporting its ambitious growth plans.

This new chapter will not only bring an estimated £50m investment but a potentially increased workforce of up to 600.

The Michelin factory first opened in 1972 and was one of the biggest employers in Dundee with over 800 staff.

Hamish Rowan, CEO, Wilkie said: “The world-class infrastructure” at MSIP provides a strong foundation for Wilkie to honour its proud legacy while embarking on an exciting new chapter of innovation and growth.

“This strategic decision reflects Wilkie’s commitment to seizing the immense opportunities presented in the global technical textiles market.”

Mr Rowan said the move marks the beginning of “a new era” creating a home for Wilkie for the next 150
years.

“With MSIP and a partnership with Scottish Enterprise, we are looking forward to welcoming and supporting other related and exciting businesses to the Parc in the near future,” he added.

Greig Coull, CEO of MSIP, said he was “delighted” that Wilkie has brought its large-scale manufacturing ambitions to the site.

He added: “Their leadership and deep-rooted commitment to innovation, sustainability, and growth will continue our mission to drive forward decarbonisation and advanced manufacturing.

“With Wilkie as the majority shareholder, this partnership, supported by our invaluable collaborators, including Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Government, marks a transformative step forward for Dundee and the region.”

Mr Coull said the future looks bright, creating lasting economic, environmental, and social impact.

John Howe, managing director, Michelin UK said: “Since MSIP was set up, it has focused on creating jobs and improving sustainability.

“The agreement with Wilkie delivers exactly that and we believe it will benefit Dundee, the wider region and Scotland as a whole.

“We are proud to have been involved in the creation of MSIP and we wish both MSIP and JDW all the very best for the future.”