Bridgestone is offering employees at its Ag tire plant in Des Moines a separation deal. In a statement to our newsroom, Bridgestone says:
Bridgestone regularly evaluates all aspects of its business to ensure we remain competitive and that resources are allocated in a manner that best supports our business strategy. On January 6, we notified local United Steelworkers (USW) leadership at our Des Moines Ag Tire Plant that we will be implementing a voluntary separation option due to ongoing demand constraints in the agriculture tire sector. Bridgestone will continue to monitor current market conditions and future forecasts across all of our businesses to review production schedules and adjust as conditions warrant.
United Steelworkers (USW) Local 310 President, Keenan Bell, says the offer is for up to 130 people.
"It allows an individual to raise their hand and say 'I no longer wish to work here as of January 31st', and they receive a $35,000 check," Bell said.
Bridgestone made the announcement at the plant on Tuesday morning, according to Bell. If the plant does not have 130 people accept the offer, Bell said Bridgestone would look at other options they've used before.
"They've used furloughs, and they have used a permanent layoff," Bell said. "So, I would assume if they do not hit that 130 person mark, then that's where they would obtain the rest of those individuals."
At least 118 employees were laid off from the plant on Northwest 2nd Street in the Summer of 2024.