AKRON, Ohio — Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. announced on Wednesday that it will temporarily suspend manufacturing in the U.S. and across the Americas due to the sudden decline in market demand resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

A phased shutdown will begin across Goodyear's tire, retread, and chemical plants in Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and the U.S. over the coming days, according to a news release from the tire manufacturer. The shutdown is expected to last through April 3 or until further notice. Earlier this week, the company reportedly closed its facility in Peru.

Goodyear said that it will closely monitor the local conditions surrounding its warehouse and distribution operations, as well as inventory and supply levels to continue delivery of the company’s products. 

To further protect the health and well being of its associates, customers, and communities, Goodyear also said that it is following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (go here for guidance for businesses and employers and here for general COVID-19 updates) and has introduced a number of preventive measures at its facilities, including limiting visitor access and business travel, implementing remote working and social distancing practices, and increasing frequency of disinfection.