Consumers Rank Michelin Highest in J.D. Power and Associates Satisfaction Study of Replacement Tires

GREENVILLE, S.C., Oct. 15, 2003 -- Michelin North America, Inc. for the fourth consecutive year was ranked highest in customer satisfaction by consumers who purchased replacement tires for cars and light trucks, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2003 Replacement Tire Buyer Behavior and Satisfaction Study, http://www.jdpower.com/news/releases/pressrelease.asp?ID=2003123 . The two new honors bring Michelin's total to 37 of the prestigious awards, which is more than all other tire manufacturers combined.

"We are always delighted to be recognized in this way," said Sheryl Henderson, Michelin brand marketing director. "Consistently making the top spots in the J.D. Power and Associates awards for Customer Satisfaction validates our commitment to continue listening to the consumer. The awards also remind us to keep pushing the innovation envelope to develop products that provide consumers with the quality and driving security they have come to expect from Michelin."

Michelin is the only tire brand to have received a J.D. Power and Associates Award every year since the overall tire studies were first conducted in 1989.

Michelin manufactures and sells tires for every type of vehicle, including airplanes, automobiles, bicycles, earthmovers, farm equipment, heavy-duty trucks and the space shuttle. The company also publishes travel guides, maps and atlases covering Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America employs 24,640 and operates 22 plants in 18 locations.