Tire manufacturer building a new facility in Dayton

DAYTON, Tennessee (WDEF) – Gov. Bill Haslam announces a major new manufacturing plant for Rhea County.

Nokian Tyres will invest $360 million into the facility and hire 400 workers.

That will be the largest foreign direct investment in Rhea County history.

“Nokian Tyres’ decision to locate its new operations here is a tremendous win for Rhea County and our state, and we want to thank Nokian Tyers for its decision to invest in Southeast Tennessee,” Gov. Haslam said.

The company is based in Finland, with a North American sales office in Vermont.

They specialize in making tires for harsh weather and conditions, like snow and forests.

The Dayton plant will make car, SUV and light-truck tires.

Nokian Tyres’ Interim President and CEO Andrei Pantioukhov says “The Dayton/Rhea County site was selected based on several factors, including skilled workforce availability, logistical advantages and a business-friendly administration. After thorough investigation, it was clear that Tennessee was the best choice for the factory, and we are proud to become part of the community.”

Construction will begin in early 2018 and should be completed in 2020.

“We are so proud to announce this opportunity with Nokian Tyres. This investment will forever change the economic landscape of our entire region and provide hundreds of great paying jobs right here in Dayton,” Dayton Mayor Gary Louallen said. “I am also very proud of the City of Dayton team and the leadership that initially invested into Rail Hub South development to attract investments such as this one. Nokian Tyres will be a great fit for our community.”

“I am so proud of the entire extended team that has worked so hard to bring this project to Dayton. It has been a great regional and statewide team effort to align the resources to deliver the plan for long term success,” Rhea County Mayor George Thacker said. “We’re excited to have Nokian Tyres here in Rhea County. Our team is all aligned to help bring this project to life.”