(May 14, 2011) MOUNT VERNON, Ill. (PRNewswire) — Increasing demand for Continental and General brand passenger and light truck tires in North and South America is the driving force behind a $224 million investment announced this week by Continental Tire the Americas. 

Along with the investment 444 new full-time jobs will be crated within the next three years. The investment is part of Continental's comprehensive growth strategy for its tire operations worldwide.

Of the $224 million, $171 million will be directed for new machinery and equipment, and $53 million will be used for building and infrastructure. The Mt. Vernon plant capacity will increase by nearly 4 million tires per year.

"Creating jobs and encouraging investment in Illinois is strengthening our state's economic recovery," said Governor Quinn.  "Continental's decision to invest in Mt. Vernon will create jobs and make a lasting impact throughout this region, leading to further private-sector growth and economic development."

Employment at the plant has grown by about 400 jobs since 2006, bringing the current plant employment to more than 2,500.  The additional 444 new full-time jobs will bring total plant employment to nearly 3,000 in the next three years 

This business growth is highlighted by a nearly 7 percent increase in total volume for the passenger and light truck tire business in the Americas region within the past three years, leading to significantly increased profitability across the region.