Purcell Tire & Rubber Company to expand in Potosi, investing more than $5.3 million and creating 10 new jobs

Purcell Tire & Rubber Company, a leading provider of tire and rubber products, announced today that it will expand in Potosi, investing more than $5.3 million and creating 10 new jobs. The company’s expansion includes the acquisition of an 8-acre site in the Washington County Industrial Park for a more than 44,000-square-foot warehouse, distribution center, and fleet repair shop.

“It’s always exciting to see leading employers like Purcell Tire growing and creating jobs in our state,” said Governor Mike Parson. “Missouri’s economic strengths, including the availability of quality industrial sites, continue to result in investments made in our communities across the state. We wish Purcell Tire all the best as it continues to find success in Washington County.”

Purcell Tire’s new facility will streamline its distribution processes and improve vehicle maintenance services, reinforcing its commitment to providing top-notch service. The addition of new jobs will help strengthen the local workforce and provide new opportunities for the community. Purcell Tire’s latest expansion builds on its history of commitment to communities in addition to its legacy of excellence and innovation in the tire and rubber industry.

“Purcell has been an active member of the Washington County community for decades,” said Roger Lucas, CEO of Purcell Tire & Rubber Company. “We are excited about this new venture and we are excited about the prospect it brings for growth to the community and our employees. The collaboration and commitment between the teams to advance this project has been excellent and we want to extend our thanks to all those who made this possible.”

“We have become the leading OTR tire retreader in the world,” said Bob and Juanita Purcell, owners of Purcell Tire. “Our growth over the years has been an exciting ride. Why do I love the tire business so much? Maybe it’s easier to retread than retire. Now we have the opportunity to grow in our home area.  As before, we will be very conservative and say we’ll add 10 jobs, but we hope it will end up being 60!”

Purcell Tire and the Washington County Industrial Development Authority will host a groundbreaking event on August 13, 2024, at 10 a.m. at the site located at 10505 Industrial Park Drive, Mineral Point.

New jobs added as part of Purcell Tire’s expansion will pay an average wage well above the county average.

“We’re proud to support Purcell Tire as the company continues helping Missourians prosper in Washington County,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “This expansion is a testament to the importance of development-ready industrial sites and another example of the value of collaboration with our partners.”

For this expansion, Purcell Tire will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation.

What others are saying

“I’m excited to see the expansion and commitment Purcell has made to Washington County,” said Dave Sansegraw, Washington County Presiding Commissioner. “Purcell is one of our largest employers, so this is great news!”

“We are thrilled to support the continued success and growth of Purcell Tire & Rubber Company,” said Jaclyn Rowe, Consulting Director of the Washington County Industrial Development Authority. “This new facility will not only enhance Purcell’s operations, but will also contribute to the economic vitality of Washington County.”

About Purcell Tire & Rubber Company

Founded in 1936, Purcell Tire & Rubber Company has grown to become a leading provider of tire and rubber products, with a strong focus on quality, innovation, and customer service. Its motto is “exceptional value for every customer.” Purcell’s inaugural locations in Washington, Missouri, Granite City, Illinois, and DeSoto, Missouri, have expanded to over 50 across the United States. Purcell has five truck retread plants, two giant tire plants, four distribution centers, and offers pick-up and delivery services in 45 states. Purcell is also the largest giant tire retreader in North America.

To learn more about Purcell, visit purcelltire.com.

About the Missouri Department of Economic Development

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.

For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.

About the Missouri Works Program

As the state’s number one incentive tool for expansion and retention, the Missouri Works Program helps businesses access capital through withholdings or tax credits to embark on facility expansions and create jobs. This program can also help businesses purchase equipment to maintain its facility in Missouri.