The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has notified its employees and the United Steelworkers (USW) regarding the likely closure of the Fayetteville Consumer Tire Plant by the end of 2027. 

“After extensive efforts to make the Fayetteville, North Carolina facility competitive, Goodyear is in discussions with the United Steelworkers to close the facility by the end of 2027," shared Goodyear Senior Director, Global Manufacturing & Supply Chain Communications Kylie Ulanski in an email to the Journal. "This difficult action is necessary to strengthen Goodyear’s ability to compete in today’s marketplace and support the long‑term health of the business. Our focus is on treating all impacted associates fairly and communicating openly as discussions move forward.” 

“While this news is disappointing, Fayetteville has always risen to meet challenges head-on,” said City of Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin in a press release. “We are redoubling our efforts to connect our workforce to new opportunities and ensure our residents are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow. Our commitment to building a Next Generation workforce has never been more critical.” 

For more than 55 years, the Fayetteville facility, first as Kelly Tire and later as Goodyear, has been an important part of Cumberland County’s manufacturing community. The plant has provided generations of residents with stable careers and has contributed significantly to the economic strength and growth of our region. While this closure will have a significant impact on our community, local and state partners stand ready to support the workers and their families with job placement services, workforce training, and other assistance programs.  

“Cumberland County cares deeply about every worker and family impacted by this closure,” said Cumberland County Board of Commissioners Chairman Kirk deViere in a press release. “Together, with our partners at NCWorks, Mid-Carolina Regional Workforce Development Board, Fayetteville Technical Community College, and the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the City and County are committed to providing support and resources to those affected.”   

“We are deeply saddened by this news, and our thoughts are first and foremost with the workers and families who may be impacted”, said FCEDC President Robert Van Geons in a press release. “Assuming the closure proceeds, FCEDC will work in close coordination with state and local workforce development partners to ensure that all impacted employees have seamless access to training programs, job placement services, and other forms of support.”