A New Dawn for Dundee: Wilkie’s Investment Revives Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc

In a significant boost for Dundee’s economy, advanced textiles manufacturer Wilkie has stepped in as the major shareholder of the Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc (MSIP). This move is set to restore nearly all the jobs lost when the Michelin tire factory closed its doors in 2020, a closure that saw 850 workers laid off. With an investment of up to £50 million, Wilkie plans to triple its workforce at MSIP to 600, adding to the nearly 200 staff already employed at the site.

The Scottish Government has played a pivotal role in this transformation. Following the factory’s closure, ministers worked tirelessly to retain the site as an economic hub. They forged a partnership with Michelin, Dundee City Council, and Scottish Enterprise, which collectively invested almost £50 million to create the Parc. Since its inception, MSIP has blossomed into a center for innovation and skills, housing 16 tenant companies and providing a nurturing environment for new businesses.

During a recent visit to the Parc, Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes expressed her optimism. “When Michelin closed the doors on its tyre factory, the Scottish Government promised to reinvest in the site’s economic future,” she stated. Forbes highlighted the importance of Wilkie’s Scottish heritage and its commitment to sustainable innovation. She noted that MSIP has evolved from a mere idea into a thriving business community, connecting industry leaders with academia to foster greener economic growth.

The MSIP features an Innovation Hub and Labs, alongside a Skills Academy led by Dundee and Angus College. It has supported 53 new businesses through its Innovator Accelerator programme, creating over 80 jobs in the process. Wilkie’s relocation from Kirriemuir, where it currently employs around 200 workers, signals a bright future for the Parc. The company has emphasized that its existing workforce will be integral to its success, with transport arrangements in place to facilitate commutes to Dundee.

Scottish Enterprise will remain a minority shareholder, collaborating with Wilkie to ensure the continued success of the Parc. As this transition unfolds, the Scottish Government is committed to supporting both the workforce and the wider community, ensuring that the legacy of the Michelin factory evolves into a beacon of innovation and opportunity for Dundee.