Toyo Tires plant in Franklin set to close Oct. 31

FRANKLIN, Ky. – An auto manufacturing plant in Simpson County is set to close by October, affecting over 200 people.

The Toyo Tire Corporation announced they will be closing their U.S. production plant, which is located in Franklin, by Oct. 31.

The plant opened back in 2001. The corporation cites the soaring cost of materials, energy and labor as a reason for the closure, saying it’s difficult to maintain or improve profitability.

Judge executive Mason Barnes says he’s not too worried about the future of Simpson County’s economy.

“Our industrial recruitment efforts have been pretty solid in Simpson County. So finding replacement jobs for all those people right here in Simpson County should be remarkably easy,” he says.

The company says they will provide each employee with job placement assistance.