Michelin

On May 28, 1889, brothers Édouard and André Michelin launched their company in Clermont-Ferrand to take over their father's rubber factory. They quickly shifted focus from industrial goods to pneumatic tires, introducing the first removable tire for bicycles in 1891 and the inflatable spare tire in 1895. These innovations transformed early automotive travel by making repairs faster and rides smoother.

The brand identity solidified with the creation of Bibendum in 1898. This friendly figure made of stacked tires became a global symbol of reliability. While the tire business remains the financial engine, the company also built a massive cultural footprint through the Michelin Guide. Originally distributed as a free road map in 1900 to encourage driving and boost sales, the guide evolved into the world's most prestigious restaurant rating system.

Today, CEO Yves Chapot leads the corporation following Florent Menegaux's retirement in July 2024. The company maintains its position as the top global tire manufacturer while expanding into sustainable mobility solutions like electric vehicle tires and connected technology. Recent expansions of the Michelin Guide include new ratings for Mexican cuisine in San Francisco and hospitality standards in Colorado Springs. [edit]