The Michelin story
Brothers André and Édouard Michelin founded their company in Clermont-Ferrand in 1889. In 1891 they patented a detachable bicycle tyre that could be repaired quickly, and they soon moved to car tyres. In 1900 they published the first Michelin Guide, and in 1946 the company patented the radial tyre, which changed the industry.
What makes Michelin powerful
Michelin's power combines product leadership with cultural authority. Its tyres are a reference for safety and durability, from family cars to aircraft and racing. The MICHELIN Guide and its stars are the world's best-known restaurant rating. Bibendum, the Michelin Man, created in 1898, is one of the oldest brand mascots still in use.
Michelin today
Compagnie Générale des Établissements Michelin is listed in Paris and still based in Clermont-Ferrand. Florent Menegaux has led the group since 2019. Michelin aims to make its tyres entirely from renewable, recycled or sustainable materials by 2050 and is growing businesses beyond tyres, including in composites and medical materials.
What comes next for Michelin
Michelin's task is to keep its premium position against lower-priced tyres while moving towards more sustainable materials. Its guide gives the brand a reach no rival tyre maker has.
Why Michelin ranks #17
Michelin ranks #43 in WCRC's World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 with a Power Score of 76.51.
Europe's ranking carries the same score, which places Michelin at #17 among brands of core European origin.
Pillar profile
Michelin was assessed on all five pillars and 50 parameters in the World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026. See its full global profile.
Versus its nearest rivals
13 Automotive & Mobility brands are in the Europe 100. Michelin is #4 in its sector.
Questions people ask
What rank is Michelin in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026?
Michelin ranks #17 of 100 in Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026, with a WCRC Power Score of 76.51 out of 100. It also ranks #43 in WCRC's World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026.
When was Michelin founded and who founded it?
Michelin was founded in 1889. Founder(s): André and Édouard Michelin.
Who leads Michelin today?
Florent Menegaux, CEO. The brand is owned by Compagnie Générale des Établissements Michelin.
Where is Michelin headquartered?
Michelin is based in Clermont-Ferrand, France. Its country of origin is France.
What is Michelin's revenue?
€26.0bn sales (FY2025), according to the company's published results.
What is a signature fact about Michelin?
The first MICHELIN Guide was published in 1900 to encourage motorists to drive more, and wear out more tyres.
Key facts
| Brand | Michelin |
|---|---|
| Company / owner | Compagnie Générale des Établissements Michelin |
| Headquarters | Clermont-Ferrand, France |
| Founded | 1889 |
| Founder(s) | André and Édouard Michelin |
| Leadership | Florent Menegaux, CEO |
| Latest revenue | €26.0bn sales (FY2025) Source |
| Sector | Automotive & Mobility |
| Country of origin | France |
| Signature fact | The first MICHELIN Guide was published in 1900 to encourage motorists to drive more, and wear out more tyres. |
| Official website | michelin.com |
Michelin is ranked #17 in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 (Power Score 76.51).