Michelin’s Léonard project has marked a significant milestone with the production of its 500,000th-retreaded tyre at the Béthune site in northern France.
Retreading Growth
More than a numerical achievement, this development reflects the success of a forward-looking industrial initiative, the commitment of a skilled workforce, and the growing recognition of retreading as a viable and sustainable component of modern mobility.
Launched in 2023, the Léonard project was established to reinvent the tyre life cycle. At its heart lies the transformation of a former new tyre production facility into a fully operational circular manufacturing site. The transition has enabled the revival of French industrial expertise in retreading, a sector that had been largely overlooked in recent decades.
The Béthune facility employs 130 people whose efforts have culminated in the reconditioning of half a million tyres in just over a year. This result is notable not only for its scale but also for its environmental and economic significance. According to figures provided by consultancy Espère, the reuse of these tyres has prevented an equivalent quantity of waste from entering the waste stream and has saved approximately 9,000 tonnes of CO₂ compared with the production of new tyres.
Economically, the initiative aligns closely with the principles of the circular economy by prioritising the reuse of existing materials and reducing the need for virgin resources. At the same time, it has brought renewed activity to the Béthune site, supporting local employment and helping to rebuild the region’s industrial capacity.
The tyres produced at Béthune meet all relevant safety and performance standards, offering a credible and environmentally responsible alternative for both commercial and individual users. The project highlights that retreading is not merely a fallback option but a high-quality solution capable of meeting today’s mobility demands while reducing environmental impact.
With the 500,000 milestone reached, the Léonard project now looks ahead to its next objective: achieving one million retreaded tyres. This target reflects continued investment in sustainable practices and a strong belief in the long-term value of retreading within the tyre industry.
