Michelin North America Inc. joins the ranks of tiremakers to shut down some tire production in the U.S. and Canada. But Michelin says it will keep some plants open to provide "vital and critical tires" for the nation's economy.

The company didn't detail which plants would close or which would remain open, but said it was beginning a "temporary, phased shutdown" of some facilities due to COVID-19. (A Michelin spokesman tells Modern Tire Dealer the company likely won't be providing "site-specific details.")

Based on the current outlook, Michelin says the phased suspection of some production would last "for at least two weeks."

Distribution and logistics activities will continue to support customers through existing inventories, the company says.

Michelin "is monitoring conditions closely and has established appropriate contingency plans, prepared to adjust as the situation evolves.

"Michelin remains focused on the health and well-being of its employees and communities, and the company is developing plans and revising policies to mitigate the financial impacts of this temporary shutdown on its employees.

"The company will continue to follow closely all guidelines and directions from state, local or provincial governments, with the goal of limiting the spread of the virus and consequences of the pandemic for employees, customers and partners."

Editor's note: This story originally ran on Modern Tire Dealer, a Bobit publication.