Titan International's Chairman Highlights Company Strength at Upcoming Shareholder Meeting
On June 9, 2025, Titan International, Inc. (NYSE: TWI), a prominent global manufacturer specializing in off-highway wheels, tires, assemblies, and undercarriage products, conveyed an important message through its Chairman of the Board of Directors, Maurice (Morry) Taylor. The statement comes ahead of the company's Annual Shareholder Meeting scheduled for June 11, 2025, which will have a virtual component for shareholders to join conveniently.
In his message, Mr. Taylor extended a warm welcome to shareholders, inviting them to participate in the upcoming Annual Shareholder meeting online. He noted the presence of Paul Reitz and his dedicated team, alongside the Titan Board members, emphasizing the collaborative effort within the company to bring shareholder interests to the forefront. Notably, this year, ISS and Glass/Lewis have advised TWI shareholders to align their votes significantly with the recommendations proposed by the Titan Board, which Mr. Taylor recognized with gratitude.
The Chairman emphasized the significance of this meeting, given that it is the company's first gathering since President Trump was elected for another term. Taylor highlighted his extensive knowledge about tariffs and U.S. government initiatives aimed at bolstering American industries, a concern very pertinent to Titan's operations. He expressed confidence in the positive impacts of tariffs for Titan and its shareholders, referencing the company's past victory in a tariff dispute against Chinese imports of farm and OTR tires back in 2012. This court ruling, which favored Titan, was a landmark decision that demonstrated the company's resilience and capability in challenging adverse market dynamics.
Furthermore, Mr. Taylor shed light on Titan's operational footprint, noting that the company boasts tire manufacturing facilities across several states: Freeport, IL; Des Moines, IA; Bryan, OH; Union City, TN; Jackson, TN; and Clinton, TN. The six plants collectively employ a talented workforce ready to meet domestic market demands. However, Taylor voiced concerns regarding the influx of tires from international markets, including China, India, Japan, and Mexico, which he believes flood the U.S. market. The growing demand for sizable farm OTR tires, which require extensive manual labor and diverse manufacturing components, underscores the potential for increased domestic production.
As the meeting approaches, Mr. Taylor expressed his optimism that with support from the current administration, the U.S. manufacturing sector, particularly in agriculture and construction equipment, could experience revitalization. He illustrated a vision where farm equipment would be imported into the U.S. and subsequently fitted with American-made tires and wheels, leading to reduced costs for consumers and enhanced manufacturing prospects for Titan.
As a closing remark, he reiterated President Trump's commitment to championing American workers, stating, “American businesses have been getting the short straw for a long time.” His comment represents Titan's alignment with the broader objectives of rejuvenating the nation's manufacturing landscape and securing a more favorable business environment for domestic producers.
In summary, the upcoming Annual Shareholder Meeting not only reflects Titan International's commitment to transparency and shareholder engagement but also serves as a platform for discussing pressing industry challenges and opportunities in the wake of evolving economic conditions and government policies. For more information about Titan International, interested parties can visit
www.titan-intl.com.