Prague Plant Closure Part of Yokohama’s Optimisation Plan for Off-Highway Tyre Operations

Yokohama Rubber to close its Prague plant by June 2025, transferring production to other sites as part of a strategic push to optimise its off-highway tyre operations.

Yokohama Rubber Announces Prague Plant Closure in Strategic Manufacturing Shift

The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd. (YRC) has announced plans to close its Prague plant, operated by subsidiary Yokohama TWS Czech Republic a.s., by June 2025. The plant, a long-standing producer of cross-ply off-highway tyres (OHT) for agricultural and industrial machinery, will see its operations transferred to other YRC facilities as part of a wider strategic transformation.

The decision comes amid a comprehensive programme by Yokohama TWS to adapt to the evolving demands of the off-highway tyre industry. This initiative focuses on three key pillars: bolstering product innovation, enhancing digitalisation, and optimising manufacturing efficiency.

Focus on Strategic Realignment

The Prague plant, operational for over 90 years, has been identified as a source of inefficiencies, with outdated production platforms posing challenges to competitiveness. The closure aligns with Yokohama TWS’s broader goals to create a more sustainable and efficient manufacturing footprint. The company aims to maintain its commitment to a ‘local for local’ strategy, producing tyres closer to key markets while meeting customer demands more effectively.

Support for Employees and Partners

The closure will impact 270 employees. Yokohama TWS has committed to providing support to these workers during the transition and will engage with partners, vendors, and other stakeholders to manage the changeover.

In a statement, YRC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a leadership position in the global OHT market. Already the largest producer of agricultural tyres and a major player in industrial tyres, the group is ramping up investments in sustainability and performance-focused innovation to stay ahead in the competitive landscape.

A Future-Focused Vision

Yokohama Rubber’s strategic programme reflects its ambition to balance efficiency with innovation. The company’s increased focus on product advancements and digitalisation aims to strengthen customer service levels while optimising costs and production capabilities.

As YRC continues to realign its manufacturing operations globally, updates on its progress will be shared in the coming months.

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