Michelin Tyres

Since 1927 Stoke has been home to one of Michelins biggest plants. Based on Campbell Road, the factory supported generations of locals in Stoke's second biggest industry. Just like the potteries, whole communities and families built their livelihoods around the work that Michelin supplied. In Stoke-on-Trent, the factory operated with a workforce of 180 people, spread across 3 shifts per day, 5 days per week, 24 hours a day. The staff were thoroughly trained, with some factory roles requiring up to 6 months on-the-job training in order to master the skills and level of precision required by Michelin.

Many Stokies will be familiar with Michelin's famous mascot 'Bibendum'. The tubby white character made an appearance on many different roundabouts, bridges and walkways.

The unusual name is thought to have come from the latin phrase "Nunc est Bibendum", which translates to "Now is the time to drink!". A phrase that was certainly exclaimed by the factory workers when their Friday shift had ended!